“During the operation, officers secured one cardboard box and five plastic containers with holes containing the birds,” BKSDA Maluku Forest Ranger Arga Christyan informed here on Friday.
The birds were allegedly to be transported across several cities, from Jayapura, Sorong, Ambon, Bau-Bau, Makassar, and Surabaya to Jakarta. Following intensive coordination and public awareness efforts, the owner voluntarily handed over the birds to authorities.
According to Christyan, three of the birds were found dead, while the remaining ten were alive, healthy, and wild.
"The birds that were rescued have been transferred to the Maluku Islands Wildlife Conservation Center for observation before release back into their natural habitat," he added.
BKSDA Maluku continues to urge the public to help protect wildlife and preserve ecosystem balance. Such actions, the agency stressed, play an important role in conserving endangered species and raising awareness about the importance of wildlife protection.
In addition to patrols, the agency also implements educational approaches to local communities to strengthen understanding of their role in wildlife conservation. These educational efforts have proven effective in reducing illegal ownership of protected species.
BKSDA Maluku also expressed appreciation for the cooperative stance of the bird owner, stating that such collaboration is important in strengthening synergy between communities and conservation institutions.
Under Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Conservation of Living Natural Resources and Ecosystems, illegal possession or trade of protected wildlife carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to Rp100 million.
Related news: Ministry reveals illegal trade of black-capped lories in South Papua
Related news: Indonesia develops national red list to protect endangered wildlife
Related news: Ministry, IPB collaborate on biobank for wildlife conservation
Translator: Winda, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
