Maluku BKSDA Secures Six Black-Capped Lories Aboard KM Leuser

The Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has secured six black-capped lories (Lorius lory) discovered aboard the KM Leuser during a joint surveillance operation at Yos Sudarso Port in Ambon. The protected birds were found around 1.30 a.m. local time on the forward section of Deck 2 of the vessel, which had sailed from Papua en route to Surabaya. All the animals were subsequently taken into custody and handed over to the Maluku Islands Wildlife Conservation Centre to undergo health examinations and care before further steps are determined. The Maluku BKSDA reminded the public that anyone who captures, possesses, transports, keeps, or trades protected wildlife without a permit may face criminal sanctions in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations. Forestry Police officer Cardolin CH Latuputty stated that surveillance of wildlife traffic at ports will continue to be strengthened through cooperation with relevant agencies to prevent the smuggling and illegal trade of protected species. She also urged the public to play an active role in preserving biodiversity by not trading protected wild animals and by promptly reporting any suspected wildlife trade offences to the authorities. Under Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Their Ecosystems, anyone who deliberately captures, injures, kills, stores, possesses, keeps, transports, or trades protected wildlife (Article 21 paragraph (2) letter a) faces a maximum prison sentence of five years and a maximum fine of Rp100 million (Article 40 paragraph (2)).