Torpedo-like Object Found in NTB, Lanal Mataram on Alert to Guard Waters

In line with directives from the Navy Chief of Staff emphasising that the Indonesian Navy and its units are committed to protecting every inch of NTB’s maritime sovereignty and security, Lanal Mataram is dedicated to safeguarding NTB’s territorial waters from all forms of threats and security disturbances following the discovery of a torpedo-like object. “In accordance with the Navy Chief of Staff’s directives emphasising that the Indonesian Navy and its units are committed to protecting every inch of NTB’s maritime sovereignty and security,” said Lanal Mataram Commander Colonel Laut (P) Asep Tri Prabowo in Mataram on Wednesday. The statement was made in response to the finding of a foreign object resembling a torpedo by a fisherman floating in the waters of Gili Trawangan, North Lombok Regency, on Monday (6/4). He emphasised that Lanal Mataram will not tolerate unauthorised activities in NTB’s territorial waters, including the use of underwater devices for non-essential purposes. “All tourism activities, academic interests, everything must be based on permits, which are issued by the Ministry of Defence,” he said. Regarding the torpedo-like object discovery, Asep urged the public to remain calm and not be swayed by unverified rumours. “Stay calm, do not speculate, continue activities as usual, and immediately report any anomalies or foreign objects that could endanger navigation and other matters,” he stated. He mentioned that the foreign object, resembling a torpedo, measuring about 3.7 metres in length, 65 centimetres in diameter, and weighing around 2 tonnes, has been secured. “The object has been secured at Lanal Mataram under strict supervision by the military police under Lanal Mataram,” he said. “From the initial investigation by the Gegana police unit, the item does not contain radioactive materials or explosives,” Asep added. The foreign object was first discovered by a fisherman named Harianto (28) floating in the waters north of Gili Trawangan, approximately 10 nautical miles from the shoreline. Upon the discovery, Harianto informed members of the Gili Trawangan Police Post, and the object was evacuated to the shore of Gili Trawangan.