Police hold dialogue with fishermen to address issues in North Jakarta

The Marine and Air Police Directorate (Ditpolairud) of Polda Metro Jaya conducted a dialogue with coastal fishermen in Kalibaru, Cilincing, North Jakarta (Jakut), to address various issues faced by the fishing community, including environmentally damaging fishing gear and industrial waste.

Police Commissioner Mustofa stated that the dialogue served as a direct communication channel between police and fishermen to understand prevailing issues in the coastal area. “Through this activity, we aim to hear the input and complaints of fishermen directly. Ditpolairud Polda Metro Jaya is present to provide services, protection, and find solutions within our authority,” he said.

Fishermen raised concerns about the use of garok fishing gear, which they claim damages coral reefs and marine ecosystems, declining fish catches, reduced fishing grounds, the need for docking facilities for bagang apung, and industrial waste affecting coastal waters. Mustofa emphasised the need for continuous awareness campaigns on fishing gear regulations to prevent conflicts among fishermen and preserve marine ecosystems. “If incidents or suspected violations occur, report them immediately. We also encourage awareness efforts so fishermen understand permitted and prohibited gear,” he added.

The event included the distribution of basic necessities packages to the fishing community. The dialogue, held on Monday (25 May) at Taman Anak Pesisir, Gang Manunggal 7, Kalibaru, was attended by Acting Head of Investigation Subunit, Subdit Gakkum, Ditpolairud Polda Metro Jaya Assistant Commissioner of Police M Aldi, Head of Cilincing Patrol Unit Inspector Syamsul Bahri, Jeni, Chairman of the Traditional Fishermen Unity of Indonesia (KNTI) Cilincing branch, officials from Angin Mamiri Bahari Cooperative, and local fishermen.