Bapedalda investigates forest fires<\/p>\n
PEKANBARU, Riau: A joint team from the Riau Environment
\nManagement Agency (Bapedalda) and relevant authorities are
\ninvestigating at least 11 plantation companies accused of setting
\nfire to land, which caused forest fires.<\/p>\n
Riau Bapedalda head Ahmadsyah Harofie declined to reveal the
\nnames of the companies, citing ethical reasons. However, he said,
\nthe 11 firms were based in the province, including one in Kampar
\nregency.<\/p>\n
The companies have been accused of clearing their land between
\nMay and June using banned slash and burn methods.<\/p>\n
Harofie said the inquiry team had questioned a number of
\nwitnesses with expertise in forest fires, land damage and
\ncorporations.<\/p>\n
The investigation followed reports of hot spots discovered at
\nplantations under control of the 11 companies between May and
\nJune.<\/p>\n
\"The owners of the firms are being questioned,\" Harofie said.<\/p>\n
He promised to submit soon a report on the matter to the local
\nprosecutor's office for further investigation. \"That's our job,\"
\nhe added. --Antara<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/bapedalda-investigates-forest-fires-1447893297",
"image": ""
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"sponsor": "Okusi Associates",
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