Polri Names 138 Suspects in Forest, Land Fires

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has named 138 suspects in wildfire cases. The suspects were identified following around 200 police reports of alleged criminal offenses related to land and forest fire cases received by Polri to date.

The National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, said the number of suspects could increase as investigations and inquiries continue. Of the 138 suspects, 119 are alleged to have deliberate burning, while 19 others are suspected of causing fires through negligence.

“We have named 138 suspects for deliberate acts and negligence. Of these, 119 were deliberate acts and 19 were due to negligence. The number could still increase,” Listyo said at a press conference on Monday, 7 September 2026.

In addition to cases involving individuals, Polri is also handling cases involving corporate entities. Listyo said eight corporations are currently being investigated for their alleged involvement in wildifire activities.

Polri is also coordinating with the Forestry Agency and the Ministry of Environment to follow up on findings related to illegal land-clearing fires. Previously, relevant authorities had imposed administrative sanctions, including the suspension of business permits for 18 companies and the revocation of permits for 42 entities.

“We will investigate further to determine whether there is evidence of criminal violations involved. If there are, we will take legal action,” he explained.

In handling land and forest fire cases, Polri can apply various legal provisions related to forestry, plantations, and environmental protection and management. These include Law No. 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management, Law No. 39 of 2014 on Plantations, Law No. 41 of 1999 on Forestry, as well as regulations concerning natural resource conservation and the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP).

Listyo reiterated that applying multiple criminal law provisions is necessary to strengthen law enforcement and prevent wildfires from recurring. He also urged the public and all relevant parties to remain vigilant about weather conditions affected by the El Niño phenomenon.