Aceh Tamiang Police Chief Adjunct Senior Commissioner Muliadi said investigators have questioned witnesses and experts in connection with the case.
“Examinations confirm that 344.7 hectares of mangrove forest were cleared illegally,” Muliadi said.
Authorities have seized an excavator suspected of being used in the clearing. Police have also marked the site with investigation signs and installed police tape.
Investigators are still collecting evidence and working to identify suspects to press charges.
Muliadi said those responsible could face charges under Indonesia’s forest protection laws, including Articles 82, 84, and 92 of Law No. 18/2013, as amended by Law No. 6/2023.
Article 82 carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 10 billion rupiah (approximately USD 670,000). Article 84 carries up to five years in prison and a fine of up to 2.5 billion rupiah, while Article 92 carries a maximum 15-year sentence and fines of up to 100 billion rupiah.
The police chief urged those occupying the mangrove area to cooperate fully, stressing the gravity of the investigation.
“If illegal clearing continues, it could lead to severe damage, including flooding. Firm action is needed to stop these violations,” Muliadi warned.
He also called on the public to help protect the environment by avoiding illegal activity in forest areas.
“Forests are a source of life and must be preserved. Every citizen has a moral obligation to protect and pass them on to future generations,” he added.
According to Uli Arta Siagian, National Forest and Plantation Campaign Manager at WALHI (Indonesian Forum for the Environment), healthy mangrove ecosystems play a critical role in reducing disaster risks and vulnerability.
“For example, during floods or tidal surges, mangroves help slow water flow. Their presence and intact canopy are vital for protecting lives and reducing coastal vulnerability,” Uli said.
She added that mangroves act as a natural green belt, helping to prevent erosion and groundwater depletion.
She cited the example of Palu, Central Sulawesi, where during the earthquake and tsunami, areas with healthy mangrove cover sustained less damage, as the trees helped block the incoming seawater.
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Translator: M.Haris SA, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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