Six Black-Headed Parrots Rescued from Suspected Smuggling in Ambon

RRI.CO.ID, Ambon - After six unclaimed black-headed parrots (Lorius lory) were found on Deck 2 of KM Leuser at Yos Sudarso Port, the Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA) of Maluku immediately tightened coordination to trace the smuggling network. Officials affirmed that violations of Law No. 5/1990 will be prosecuted firmly to create a deterrent effect.

“Six black-headed parrots were seized during a joint inspection on Leuser Motor Vessel, which was docked at Yos Sudarso Port, Ambon,” said BKSDA Maluku Forest Police officer, Cardolin CH Latuputty, in Ambon on Wednesday, 16 July 2026.

He said the protected birds were discovered at about 1:30 a.m. Jakarta time on Deck 2 at the front of the ship, which was voyaging from Papua to Surabaya.

He explained that the animals were taken into custody and handed over to the Maluku Islands Wildlife Conservation Center. There they will undergo health checks and receive care before authorities determine further handling.

According to him, the black-headed parrot is a protected species under the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. P.106/2018 on Protected Plant and Animal Species.

As reported by Antara, BKSDA Maluku reminded the public that anyone who captures, possesses, transports, keeps, or trades protected wildlife without a permit may face criminal sanctions. Such acts will be dealt with firmly in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Cardolin said monitoring of wildlife traffic at ports will be strengthened through cooperation with related agencies to prevent smuggling and illegal trade in protected animals.

He also urged the public to play an active role in preserving biodiversity by not trading protected wildlife, and to promptly report any suspected wildlife trafficking to authorities.

Under Law No. 5/1990, anyone who intentionally captures, injures, kills, stores, possesses, keeps, transports, or trades protected animals can be criminally prosecuted. Violators face up to five years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of IDR 100 million (USD 5,535). ***