RRI.CO.ID, Pekanbaru – The Riau Regional Police have taken a decisive step against conservation crimes by naming a 44-year-old plantation owner as a suspect. The individual is charged in connection with the death of a Sumatran elephant calf (Elephas maximus sumatranus) within the Tesso Nilo National Park (TNTN).

This legal action highlights a broader crackdown on illegal agricultural encroachment. These activities continue to threaten the survival of protected species in one of Indonesia’s most critical habitats.

The investigation was triggered on February 26, 2026, when residents of Lubuk Kembang Bunga Village discovered the carcass of the young elephant. Subsequent forensic work by the Riau Police’s Special Crimes Directorate and the Pelalawan Resort Police revealed a grim cause of death.

“Upon receiving the information, the team immediately conducted a crime scene investigation and found that the calf suffered a severe infection in its front left leg caused by a rope snare,” remarked Director of Special Crimes, Sr. Com. Ade Kuncoro, on Monday, March 2, 2026.

As reported by infopublik.id, he further clarified that the snare was believed to be illegally set, leading to the injuries that ultimately claimed the animal's life.

The probe quickly shifted focus when investigators discovered oil palm seedlings and land ownership markers surrounding the site of the carcass. Utilizing coordinate mapping and expert analysis from zoning specialists, authorities confirmed the location sits firmly within the TNTN conservation boundaries, as established by Ministerial Decrees in 2004 and 2014.

Following the interrogation of witnesses and land managers, the individual identified by his initials, JM, was formally charged. “The suspect acted as the owner of the land located within the national park area,” explained Ade.

He noted that the status was confirmed through rigorous analysis of forest maps and expert testimony.The legal stakes for the suspect are significant.

JM faces charges under Articles 40 and 40A of Law No. 32/2024 concerning the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Ecosystems. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of IDR 5 billion (USD 311,500).

Ade emphasized that the investigation remains active to determine if other parties were involved in the placement of the lethal snares. The inquiry also seeks to identify those responsible for the illegal expansion of plantations into the protected zone.

Beyond the specific criminal charges, the Riau Police are positioning this case as a warning to those encroaching on protected lands. Tesso Nilo remains a strategic ecological stronghold for the critically endangered Sumatran elephant, yet it is constantly besieged by illegal encroachment.

“This is not just about a single criminal case, but about keeping the conservation area sustainable and ensuring the law is present to protect the ecosystem,” concluded Ade. ***