Enviro News Asia, Jakarta – The Ministry of Forestry, through the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Authority (TNBTS), has clarified circulating information regarding the discovery of a cannabis field in the conservation area.
The incident was previously linked to restrictions on drone usage and the planned closure of the tourist area, which has been confirmed as inaccurate information.
According to the Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE), Satyawan Pudyatmoko, cannabis plants were discovered in the TNBTS area in September 2024. The location was identified following an investigation into a drug-related case handled by the Lumajang Police. TNBTS covers an area of 502.8 square kilometers.
From September 18-21, 2024, a joint team consisting of the TNBTS Authority, Lumajang Police, the Indonesian National Army (TNI), and village officials from Argosari, Senduro District, Lumajang Regency, successfully uncovered the cannabis cultivation site in Pusung Duwur Block, located in Senduro and Gucialit districts.
The mapping and discovery of the cannabis field were carried out using drone technology. The team found that the cannabis plants were located in a highly concealed area, covered by dense undergrowth, and situated on steep slopes.
Once discovered, a team comprising TNBTS officers, Lumajang Police, Forest Rangers, and Manggala Agni members, with support from the local community, carried out the clearing and removal of the cannabis plants, which were then secured as evidence by the police.
As of now, the Lumajang Police have named four suspects, all of whom are residents of Argosari Village, Senduro District. The suspects are currently undergoing legal proceedings at the Lumajang District Court.
Responding to rumors that drone restrictions and the planned closure of TNBTS were related to the cannabis field case, the TNBTS Authority firmly denied the claims.
The restriction on drone usage in conservation areas has been regulated since the issuance of Government Regulation No. 36 of 2024 concerning Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) applicable to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. This regulation has also been enforced since 2019 through the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for climbing Mount Semeru.
The Ministry of Forestry has assured that it will continue to enhance patrols and monitoring efforts to prevent similar incidents from occurring again in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. ***
