Six Rescued Wildcats Spark Wildlife Trafficking Case Heading to Court in Medan

RRI.CO.ID, Medan – Six Leopard Cats (Prionailurus bengalensis) seized alive from a wildlife trafficker in North Sumatra are now recovering at a rescue center, as the criminal case against their captor moves closer to trial.

The Directorate General of Law Enforcement of the Ministry of Forestry has handed the suspect over to the Belawan District Prosecutor's Office in Medan, signaling the government's firm resolve to pursue justice for one of the region's most overlooked protected species.

The suspect, identified by the initials SD, a resident of Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, was apprehended on February 18, 2026, following a tip-off about an ongoing protected wildlife transaction.

A joint operation involving the Ministry of Forestry and the North Sumatra Regional Police successfully secured six live Leopard Cats, along with a mobile phone and a motorcycle as supporting evidence.

The transfer of the suspect to the Belawan District Prosecutor's Office was confirmed on Monday, May 11, 2026, by Head of the Sumatra Regional Forestry Law Enforcement Office, Hari Novianto.

"This referral is a legal procedural step, as well as a firm expression of our commitment to prosecuting forestry crimes. We will not give any room for the illegal trade of protected wildlife," said Hari, as quoted by Antara.

The Leopard Cat, locally known as kucing kuwuk or kucing hutan, is a protected species under Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation Number P.106/2018. Despite its protected status, the species remains vulnerable to poaching and illegal trade across the Indonesian archipelago.

The six rescued cats are currently being cared for at the Sibolangit Wildlife Rescue Center, where their wild instincts and overall health are being carefully monitored and maintained. Hari underscored the significance of inter-agency collaboration in bringing the case to this stage.

"The handover of the suspect and evidence to the Prosecutor's Office is proof of synergy between law enforcement institutions to ensure that perpetrators receive proportionate punishment in accordance with applicable law," he explained.

If convicted, SD faces a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to IDR 20 billion (USD 1.22 million) for his involvement in the trade of protected wildlife. ***