Forestry Ministry Arrests Illegal Logger in Sumatran Elephant Corridor

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has intensified its crackdown on illegal land occupation within the Seblat Nature Recreation Park (TWA) in Bengkulu, a territory recognized as a vital lifeline for the survival of the Sumatran elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus).

During a high-stakes operation, the Merah Putih Seblat Landscape joint task force apprehended an individual identified by the initial D, who is accused of illegally clearing protected forest areas to establish an oil palm plantation.

The arrest, which took place on April 19, 2026, underscored the dangers faced by environmental law enforcement. The joint team comprised officials from the Sumatra Law Enforcement Center (Gakkum), the Bengkulu Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA), the Kerinci Seblat National Park Authority, the Bengkulu Environment and Forestry Agency, the Indonesian military, and the National Police.

Two unidentified individuals attacked the team with sharp weapons, resulting in significant damage to three operational vehicles. Despite the confrontation, officers managed to detain D, who was identified as the owner of a hut and the illegal plantation at the site.

Director General of Law Enforcement at the Ministry of Forestry, Dwi Januanto Nugroho, confirmed the details of the operation from Jakarta on Thursday, April 30, 2026. He emphasized that the administration’s approach would extend beyond simple arrests to ensure the long-term integrity of the ecosystem.

"TWA Seblat is part of a vital corridor that must be maintained as an ecological fortress. In addition to legal enforcement, we will also carry out rehabilitation of damaged land and regional boundary structuring in collaboration with local administrations and conservation institutions," said Dwi, as quoted by Antara.

Following a joint investigation with the Bengkulu Regional Police's Special Crimes Directorate, D was officially named a suspect on April 20 and is currently being held at the Bengkulu Police detention center. The suspect faces severe legal consequences for conducting activities incompatible with the function of a nature conservation area.

Under current regulations, D could face a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine of up to IDR 5 billion (USD 287,930), marking a firm stance by the ministry against those threatening Indonesia's biodiversity for private gain. ***