Titiek Soeharto Awards Komodo National Park Security Team for Heroic Actions
The Chairperson of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Titiek Soeharto, has expressed high appreciation by presenting certificates of recognition to the forest security operations team that successfully handled the illegal hunting of Timor Deer in Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara. This award serves as state recognition of the dedication shown by officers working on the front lines of protecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The presentation was held symbolically at the DPR RI Building to the Director General of Forestry Law Enforcement as a representative of the Ministry of Forestry. A total of 23 personnel from the inter-agency operations team received this award, comprising members from the Forestry Law Enforcement Agency (Balai Gakkum) for the Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara regions, Komodo National Park, the West Manggarai Police, the NTT Regional Police Water Police, and the National Police Water and Air Patrol Unit.
Titiek Soeharto emphasised that Commission IV of the DPR RI, as a working partner of the Ministry of Forestry, provides full support for strengthening the protection of conservation areas. The signing of these certificates represents institutional support for officers facing high risks in the field.
The security operation, which took place in December 2025, was noted to have occurred under extremely dangerous circumstances. The joint team was involved in an armed confrontation with illegal poachers within the Komodo National Park area. Despite fierce resistance, the team successfully halted the illegal activities and secured key evidence.
To date, three individuals have been named suspects, while five others remain on the Most Wanted list (DPO). The case files have been declared complete (P-21) by the West Manggarai District Attorney’s Office. The suspects face multiple charges under Law Number 32 of 2024 concerning the Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Ecosystems, as well as Emergency Law Number 12 of 1951 regarding the possession of firearms.
The Director of Forest Resource Utilisation and Security (PSDPH), Suharyono, stated that this award carries an important message for all foresters. “This serves as a reminder that guarding the forest demands high professionalism. We will continue to strengthen competence and prioritise the safety of our personnel,” Suharyono asserted on Sunday.
Similarly, the Director General of Forestry Law Enforcement, Dwi Januanto Nugroho, emphasised that Komodo National Park is the face of Indonesia to the international community. “When armed poaching occurs, it is not just wildlife at stake, but the dignity of the state. The support from Ms Titiek Soeharto strengthens the protection ecosystem of our conservation areas,” he said.
The Ministry of Forestry has ensured that law enforcement will continue consistently through cross-agency coordination to prevent the recurrence of similar criminal activities in the future.