Indonesia Targets International Wildlife Crime After Pangolin Seizure

RRI.CO.ID, Pontianak – The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry, through its Directorate General of Law Enforcement, is intensifying efforts to dismantle transnational wildlife trafficking networks after foiling the smuggling of three tons of pangolin scales earlier this year.

Investigators arrested a Vietnamese national, identified as VXH, in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. Authorities suspect his involvement in the pangolin trade uncovered at Tanjung Priok Port, North Jakarta, in February, when customs officials intercepted 3,053 kilograms of scales disguised as export commodities.

Director General Dwi Januanto Nugroho stressed the seriousness of the crime. “The seizure of three tons of pangolin scales shows that wildlife trafficking is not merely an environmental violation, but a crime that erodes Indonesia’s natural wealth and undermines sovereignty over its biodiversity,” he said on the ministry’s official website.

He emphasized that law enforcement must not only expose perpetrators but also dismantle the networks profiting from Indonesia’s resources. “The state is present to uphold the dignity and honor of the nation in protecting biodiversity,” he added, while calling for stronger international cooperation.

Januanto praised the support of Customs, the West Kalimantan Police, the Jakarta Police, and other agencies, noting that the ministry continues to strengthen inter‑agency synergy and global collaboration, including through INTERPOL, to track networks and expose offenders. “Indonesia will not be a safe haven or trade route for international wildlife crime networks,” he asserted.

Head of the Forestry Law Enforcement Center for Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara, Aswin Bangun, said that VXH’s arrest followed sustained investigation after the Tanjung Priok seizure. “This is the result of continuous work after finding three tons of pangolin scales,” he explained, adding that investigators coordinated with Kalimantan offices to trace suspects linked to the trade.

He noted the case is part of a broader crackdown. “Previously, we handled 796 kilograms of scales at Merak Port and other protected wildlife trade cases. These show a trafficking pattern exploiting distribution routes across regions and countries. We will keep investigating to uncover those involved,” Aswin said.

The Ministry of Forestry reaffirmed that protecting wildlife is central to safeguarding Indonesia’s ecological assets and global reputation as a biodiversity‑rich nation.

Illegal trade in protected species threatens ecosystems and challenges state authority. Through firm law enforcement, international collaboration, and public support, Indonesia aims to defend its natural heritage for present and future generations. ***