RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - The swift action of the Indonesian Quarantine Agency through the Yogyakarta Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Center (Karantina) has promptly protected the nation's marine wealth. Karantina Yogyakarta, together with airport security (Aviation Security/Avsec), successfully intercepted the smuggling of 54 thousand lobster seeds (BBL) without official documents at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) on Sunday, 1 March 2026.

The Head of Quarantine in Yogyakarta, Obing Hobir As’ari, emphasized that this case has serious implications for the sustainability of Indonesia's biological natural resources. Violating Law Number 21 of 2019 concerning Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine.

"The smuggling of BBL directly impacts the sustainability of Indonesia's biological natural resources. BBL is a high-value export commodity in the international market. However, its management domestically is strictly regulated to preserve the lobster population in the wild," the Head of Quarantine Yogyakarta stated at a press conference at YIA Airport, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Monday, 2 March 2026.

He also appreciated the quick synergy between Avsec and Quarantine officers in thwarting the attempt. According to him, this action is a strong commitment to protect Indonesia's biodiversity from illegal exploitation abroad.

Obing mentioned that the case disclosure began when Avsec officers conducted a routine inspection using an X-ray machine on the passengers' luggage. The scan results revealed two suspicious-looking suitcases belonging to two passengers about to board on a flight to Singapore.

The Yogyakarta Quarantine Officers immediately followed up on the finding by conducting a physical inspection. As a result, the officers found BBL packaged in 39 plastic bags, and after counting, the number reached more than 50 thousand individuals, without the required quarantine documents.

Meanwhile, the two passengers carrying the suitcase containing the BBL have been handed over to the Kulon Progo Police for further legal proceedings. This firm action is expected to serve as a deterrent for anyone attempting to violate the traffic regulations of animal, fish, and plant commodities, Law No. 21/2019.

"After undergoing administrative processes and inspections by the Yogyakarta Quarantine Law Enforcement Team and the Kulon Progo Police, the evidence in the form of tens of thousands of lobster seeds will subsequently be released back into their natural habitat at Pantai Baru, Bantul," Obing said.