Legislator Praises Riau Police for Busting Sumatra Elephant Poaching Syndicate
A member of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Gerindra Faction, Muhammad Rahul, expressed appreciation to Polda Riau for busting the Sumatra elephant poaching syndicate in the Tesso Nilo area, Ukui District, Pelalawan Regency. He said the crackdown was not merely law enforcement, but a tangible expression of the state’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and forest ecosystems in Riau Province.
‘I extend my highest appreciation to Kapolda Riau and his ranks for the uncovering of this elephant poaching case. This shows law enforcement officers are working seriously, professionally, and do not give space to environmental criminals,’ Rahul told reporters on Wednesday (4 March 2026).
Rahul also expressed appreciation for the cooperation and collaboration between the Riau Police and Pelalawan Police Resort (Polres Pelalawan) with the Riau Branch of the Natural Resource Conservation Agency (BKSDA) in the disclosure of the case.
‘This success is the result of collaborative work. Ditreskrimum and Ditreskrimsus were able to uncover the case construction comprehensively, while Polres Pelalawan moved quickly on the ground. This shows internal police coordination is effective and structured,’ he said.
Rahul assessed that such synergy is important because crimes against protected wildlife often involve networks that are not straightforward. Therefore, he hopes the legal process against the perpetrators will be carried out to the maximum to provide a deterrent effect.
‘Trimes against protected wildlife are not petty crimes. This concerns the future of the environment and future generations. I hope the penalties imposed will truly send a clear message that Riau is not a place for illegal hunters,’ he asserted.
The Sumatra elephant poaching case has drawn serious attention because it concerns ecological identity and the sustainability of protected wildlife habitats that are an important part of natural balance.
Rahul emphasised that his side will continue to support professional, firm, and just law enforcement steps, including cases related to environmental protection and biodiversity.
‘Riau must become a safe region for protected wildlife and its ecosystems. I believe that with the leadership of Kapolda Riau and the solid work of his ranks, the commitment to protecting forests and wildlife will be reinforced,’ he concluded.
As known, Polda Riau arrested 15 suspects of the Sumatra elephant poaching syndicate in the Ukui area, Pelalawan. In addition, Polda Riau is currently pursuing 3 suspects who are on the wanted list (DPO).