The Head of the Agency, Lutfie Natsir, stated in Jayapura on Thursday that the agency remains committed to tightening supervision over the movement of rare animals and plants, in accordance with Law Number 21 of 2019 on Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine.
Natsir noted that, based on Regulation of the Minister of Environment and Forestry (Permen LHK) Number P.106/2018, the bird of paradise is classified as a protected species.
“According to Article 21, Paragraph (2) of Law Number 32 of 2024 on the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Their Ecosystems, protected animals may not be transported,” he added.
He explained that the smuggling attempt was detected during a cargo inspection, when an X-ray machine revealed the rare bird—already deceased—inside a neatly wrapped Styrofoam package.
"The evidence was handed over to the Papua Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) for further action in accordance with applicable regulations," he said.
Natsir expressed appreciation for the swift response of the Sentani Airport Avsec team in identifying the suspicious item.
"We hope this collaboration continues smoothly. Papua is home to many endemic species, including the bird of paradise. Protecting them is our shared responsibility," he added.
He emphasized that the foiled smuggling attempt highlights the urgent need for stricter monitoring at all entry and exit points to prevent illegal practices that threaten both biodiversity and economic stability.
"Moreover, quarantine plays a vital role in preventing the entry, exit, and spread of quarantined pests affecting animals, fish, and plants. This case demonstrates the effective synergy between agencies in thwarting smuggling attempts," he concluded.
Translator: Qadri Pratiwi, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
