“This operation reflects strong inter-agency cooperation and highlights the vital role of public participation in monitoring the illegal trade of protected wildlife in Indonesia,” said Director General of Law Enforcement at the ministry, Dwi Januanto Nugroho, in a written statement issued Wednesday.
The operation was carried out by the Sulawesi Regional Forestry Law Enforcement Office, in collaboration with the South Sulawesi Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) and the South Sulawesi Police.
The investigation was prompted by public reports and online posts advertising protected birds for sale through a business account owned by the suspect, identified by the initial “L.”
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to combating forest-related crimes, including the trafficking of protected flora and fauna, as part of safeguarding Indonesia’s natural resource sovereignty.
Head of the Sulawesi Forestry Law Enforcement Office, Ali Bahri, confirmed that the suspect has been detained and 48 Nicobar pigeons were seized as evidence.
Initial questioning revealed that L acquired the birds from a “Burung Langka” or “Rare Birds” community and raised them to adulthood before selling them via social media.
Expert testimony from BBKSDA South Sulawesi verified that the Nicobar pigeons are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The suspect faces up to 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of Rp5 billion.
The birds have been transferred to BBKSDA for medical care and rehabilitation. Bahri added that efforts to dismantle inter-island wildlife trafficking networks will continue in accordance with applicable laws.
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Translator: Prisca, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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