Four Arrested in Batam After Alleged Dog Poisoning and Theft Attempt
Three suspects also linked to separate aggravated burglary case in Sagulung
Residents of a Batam housing complex apprehended four alleged dog thieves after their attempted escape ended in a crash, police said.
Residents Foil Early-Morning Theft
The incident occurred on the morning of February 28, 2026, at Permata Laguna housing complex in Batuaji, Batam. Four suspects traveling in a blue Toyota Raize without license plates were caught by residents after allegedly stealing a pet dog.
According to witnesses, the suspects attempted to flee but crashed into a motorcycle nearby. Residents then surrounded the vehicle and detained the group before police arrived.
Dog Found Dead in Vehicle
Inside the car, residents reportedly discovered a dog that had already died. Authorities suspect the animal had been poisoned before being taken.
Police said the alleged modus operandi involved poisoning pet dogs before stealing them to be sold or consumed, raising concern among local residents.
Police Confirm Arrests
Batuaji Police Chief AKP Bayu Rizky Subagyo confirmed that the four suspects and the blue Toyota Raize have been secured.
“The suspects have been detained along with evidence,” Bayu said on March 1, 2026. Initial questioning led to further developments linking the group to another criminal case.
Linked to Sagulung Burglary
Three of the four suspects, identified by initials IL, DIP, and DD, were found to be involved in an aggravated theft case in Sagulung. They are accused of breaking into a shop and stealing a ship propeller fan valued at approximately 100 million rupiah (about US$6,000).
Sagulung Police Criminal Investigation Unit head First Inspector Aris Anwar confirmed that the three suspects have been handed over for further investigation related to the burglary.
Weapons and Evidence Seized
Police seized several items allegedly carried by the suspects during their activities, including bolt cutters and a machete.
Authorities said the suspects used a different vehicle in the Sagulung burglary than the blue Toyota Raize involved in the dog theft case. Investigations are ongoing as the suspects undergo intensive questioning.
The arrests have uncovered what police believe is a broader criminal network linked to both pet theft and aggravated burglary in Batam. Authorities say investigations will continue as they pursue full accountability in both cases.
Sources: Batam News (2026) , Tribun News (2026)
Keywords: Batam Dog Theft, Permata Laguna Incident, Toyota Raize Rental Car, Sagulung Shop Break-In, Aggravated Theft Indonesia