Police Firmness in Investigating Forest Fire Perpetrators in Kalimantan Appreciated
Senior political and legal analyst Boni Hargens has expressed high appreciation for the rapid response and firm action of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in investigating the forest and land fire (karhutla) cases in Kalimantan. The police’s approach, which focuses not only on extinguishing fires but also on arresting suspected perpetrators, is considered clear evidence of institutional commitment under the leadership of National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo.
“The action taken by Polri this time is not merely a reactive response, but reflects an institutional commitment that is in line with the core principles proclaimed by the police leadership,” said Boni in a written statement on Sunday (23/8/2026).
The former member of the Supervisory Board of LKBN ANTARA explained that data-based and accountable handling of environmental crime has a significant positive impact on public perception. According to him, the success of this operation is a crucial point in strengthening the legitimacy of the police institution in the eyes of the wider public.
In addition to increasing trust in Polri, Boni views this firmness as also strengthening the positive image of the administration of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. This proves that the national leadership is present and dares to act without compromise in confronting large-scale environmental crime.
“The arrest of forest burning perpetrators is a strong signal that the state is present and serious about protecting Kalimantan’s natural wealth from exploitation and destruction that threatens the sustainability of the ecosystem,” Boni asserted.
Previously, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo had confirmed that his ranks moved quickly to secure a number of individuals suspected of being the masterminds behind the forest burning in the Kalimantan region.
Sigit emphasised that law enforcement was carried out in a measured manner to stop further ecosystem destruction and maintain air quality for affected communities.
“Several names have been secured,” Sigit stated on Friday (21/8), affirming that the legal process will continue to be developed to target the parties responsible for the ecological disaster.