East Java Regional Police Strengthen Forest and Land Fire Prevention Measures

The East Java Regional Police (Polda Jatim) are strengthening prevention and preparedness measures to face potential forest and land fires (karhutla) throughout the East Java region. This move follows the National Police Chief’s Telegram Number ST/1895/VIII/OPS.1.2./2026, dated 31 August 2026, regarding measures for the prevention and control of forest and land fires.

East Java Police Public Relations Head, Senior Commissioner Jules Abraham Abast, stated that all police ranks are instructed to increase mapping and monitoring of areas that, based on regional characteristics, have a high potential for forest or land fires. “Polda East Java, along with all subordinate police resorts, is strengthening prevention and preparedness steps to face potential forest and land fires,” Jules said in Surabaya on Wednesday (2/9).

He added that the mapping of vulnerable areas, integrated patrols, readiness of personnel and infrastructure, as well as coordination with local governments and all stakeholders, are being continuously improved. Jules noted that because the characteristics of East Java’s regions vary, prevention and handling measures will be adjusted to the specific conditions and risk levels of each area.

Mapping and patrols are being directed towards forest areas, plantations, agricultural land, and other areas identified as high-risk. In implementation, Polda Jatim is strengthening coordination and synergy with the East Java Provincial Government, regency/city governments, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), the Forestry Service, the Environmental Service, the TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces), Perhutani, forest and plantation managers, and other relevant stakeholders.

In addition to integrated patrols, police units are increasing routine activities, checking the readiness of personnel and equipment, and optimising education and appeals to the public. The role of Bhabinkamtibmas (community policing officers) is being optimised to educate residents, particularly those living near forests, plantations, or lands prone to burning.

“The most important thing is to prevent fires before they occur. Therefore, we urge the community not to clear land by burning, which violates regulations, and to immediately report any hotspots or burning activities that could lead to forest and land fires,” Jules explained.

Preparedness of personnel and fire-fighting infrastructure is also being reinforced so that if hotspots are detected, handling can be carried out swiftly and integrated with relevant agencies. Jules emphasised that persuasive and preventive efforts remain the priority. However, if any forest or land burning is found to meet the elements of a criminal offence, the police will proceed with law enforcement in accordance with statutory regulations.

“Our prevention focuses on education, patrols, and collaboration. However, if forest or land burning that constitutes a criminal act is discovered, the National Police will conduct law enforcement professionally, firmly, and according to the law,” he asserted.

Polda Jatim invites the public, the business community, forest and plantation managers, and all stakeholders to work together to protect the environment and increase vigilance. “Forest and land fires are not just environmental issues; they also impact public health, social and economic activities, and collective safety. Therefore, prevention requires the involvement of all parties. Let us work together to protect East Java from forest and land fires,” said Jules.

Forest and land fires have occurred in several areas of East Java during this dry season. The most recent fire occurred near the Ranu Kumbolo area in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS). A fire also occurred in Magetan Regency on Wednesday (19/8), where a fire in the community forest of Mategal Village destroyed 8 hectares of land.

Previously, the East Java Provincial Government issued Governor’s Decision No. 100.3.3.3/327/013/2026, declaring a State of Emergency Alert for Drought and Forest and Land Fires in East Java. This status is effective for 180 days, from 16 May to 6 October 2026, to maximise efforts in handling these dry hydrometeorological disasters.