Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency Thwarts Alleged Protected Wildlife Trade in Ambon

The Maluku Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), alongside several related agencies, has thwarted an alleged trade of protected wildlife in the Yos Sudarso Port area of Ambon, securing various wild animals and animal parts suspected of being intended for illegal distribution.

“The circulation and trade of flora and fauna without a permit remains a serious threat to the sustainability of Indonesia’s biodiversity, including endemic species from the Maluku and Papua regions which possess high economic value,” stated Cardolin CH Latuputty, a Forest Police officer from BKSDA Maluku, in Ambon on Wednesday.

During the operation, officers successfully seized a number of wild animals and animal parts suspected of being traded or distributed illegally. The animals secured include the Black Cockatoo, Maluku Parrots, Rainbow Lorikeets, and deer antlers.

BKSDA Maluku noted that most of these animals are protected species under current legislation, including Law Number 32 of 2024, which amends Law Number 5 of 1990 concerning the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and their Ecosystems, as well as the Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation Number P.106 of 2018 regarding Protected Plant and Animal Species.

According to Latuputty, the success of this interception is the result of synergy and coordination between agencies in maintaining the conservation of Indonesia’s wildlife and strengthening oversight against illegal flora and fauna trade practices in Maluku. He expressed hope that BKSDA Maluku’s efforts will suppress illegal trading practices and ensure that protected species remain sustainable in the wild. He also urged the public to play an active role in wildlife protection by refraining from buying, selling, keeping, or transporting protected animals without a permit, and to immediately report any suspected wildlife trafficking crimes.