The ministry’s Director General of Law Enforcement Dwi Januanto Nugroho said in a statement on Saturday that the operation forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen protection of endangered and protected species.
“Law enforcement is a crucial instrument to create a deterrent effect and dismantle increasingly complex illegal trade networks,” he said.
The seized animals included one bodo python, 89 ball pythons, 104 live iguanas and eight dead iguanas, all lacking proper documentation.
Authorities have named a Russian national identified by the initials OS as a suspect and have transferred the case and evidence to prosecutors.
OS faces charges under conservation laws, carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a Category VI fine.
Nugroho said the smuggling method indicates involvement of an organized transnational trafficking network exploiting gaps in monitoring systems.
He warned that wildlife crime remains a serious threat to Indonesia’s biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
“Illegal wildlife trade harms the state and disrupts ecosystems that support human life,” he said.
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The ministry said enforcement efforts are being complemented by broader conservation measures.
These include habitat protection, wildlife monitoring and stronger cooperation across sectors and with international partners.
Authorities aim to preserve wildlife populations and reinforce Indonesia’s status as one of the world’s most biodiverse countries.
Nugroho said public participation is essential to support conservation efforts.
He urged people to report suspected illegal activities and avoid purchasing protected animals.
Such actions, he said, are critical to maintaining ecological balance and sustainability. The ministry reiterated its commitment to prosecuting wildlife crimes under applicable laws.
Officials said continued vigilance is needed as trafficking networks grow more sophisticated.
The case highlights the importance of strengthening monitoring systems at key entry and exit points.
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Translator: Arnidhya Nur Z, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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