Enviro News Asia, Jakarta — Indonesian authorities have officially named three individuals as suspects in an illegal wildlife poaching case inside Komodo National Park, following a joint law enforcement operation conducted by forestry, maritime, and police units.
The suspects, identified as AB, AD, and YM, were apprehended during an early-morning operation on Sunday, December 14, 2025, after allegedly engaging in illegal hunting of protected wildlife, particularly Timor deer, within the conservation area. The operation involved the Forestry Law Enforcement Agency (Gakkumhut), the Komodo National Park Authority, the Indonesian National Police’s Water and Air Police Corps, and regional police units.
Armed Resistance During Arrest
Authorities reported that the suspects attempted to flee using a wooden vessel upon interception near Loh Serikaya, Komodo Island. Despite verbal warnings and warning shots fired by officers, the suspects allegedly responded with gunfire, triggering an armed confrontation at sea.
The pursuit continued into the Sape Strait, West Nusa Tenggara, where law enforcement personnel eventually carried out measured action to halt the suspects’ escape. All three individuals were successfully detained without casualties among officers.
Evidence Secured
A follow-up dive operation conducted later that day led to the recovery of additional evidence, including:
- 10 spent bullet casings
- 8 live 5.56 mm rounds
- 1 Timor deer carcass
- 1 homemade firearm with magazine attached
- Knives, headlamps, mobile phones, and a wooden boat
All items were secured to support the ongoing investigation.
Firm Law Enforcement Commitment
Director General of Forestry Law Enforcement, Dwi Januanto Nugroho, reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance against wildlife crimes.
“Law enforcement against illegal poaching is a firm commitment of Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni and Deputy Minister Rohmat Marzuki to safeguard biodiversity in conservation areas. We will not only prosecute the perpetrators but also dismantle the broader networks involved, including the circulation of illegal firearms and ammunition,” he stated.
Addressing the Root Causes
Beyond prosecution, the Ministry of Forestry emphasized that long-term solutions must go beyond punitive measures. The ministry plans to investigate cultural practices and economic pressures that drive communities around Komodo National Park to engage in illegal hunting.
These efforts include anthropological research, community engagement, and the development of alternative, sustainable livelihoods aimed at reducing dependence on wildlife exploitation.
“Illegal poaching cannot be solved through enforcement alone. Community involvement, cultural understanding, and economic empowerment are essential to achieving lasting conservation outcomes,” Dwi added.
Legal Charges and Ecological Impact
The suspects are charged under Law No. 32 of 2024 on the Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystems, carrying penalties of up to 15 years’ imprisonment and fines of up to Rp5 billion. Additional charges under Emergency Law No. 12 of 1951 for illegal firearm possession may result in sentences ranging from long-term imprisonment to life imprisonment.
The Timor deer (Cervus timorensis) is a keystone species in Komodo National Park, serving as a primary prey species for the Komodo dragon and playing a vital role in maintaining savanna ecosystem balance. Uncontrolled hunting threatens not only the species but the broader ecological integrity of the park.
Integrated Conservation Strategy
Authorities stressed that effective conservation in Komodo National Park requires a combination of strict law enforcement, community-based economic development, and cultural engagement, ensuring that biodiversity protection aligns with local welfare and long-term sustainability. (*)
