Two Illegal Loggers Arrested in South Lampung Protected Forest
The Sumatra Forestry Law Enforcement Unit and the Lampung Provincial Forestry Office have apprehended two illegal logging suspects. The offenders operated within the Batu Serampok Register 17 Protected Forest area in Neglasari Village, Katibung District, South Lampung Regency. One suspect, identified as NRM (55), is a repeat offender who had previously been apprehended and issued a stern warning but continued his illegal activities. The other suspect, DP, acted as the driver transporting the illegally logged timber.
Hari Novianto, Head of the Sumatra Forestry Law Enforcement Unit, praised the collaborative and firm actions taken by forest area authorities in Lampung Province. He stressed that such measures are crucial to curb forest degradation, particularly in the region. “We hope this law enforcement sends a strong deterrent effect to other offenders across Lampung. No one should use economic hardship as justification for environmental destruction while ignoring ecological aspects and forest sustainability, which affect public welfare,” Novianto stated on Sunday (31 May).
He added that the Forestry Law Enforcement Unit is committed to intensifying patrols and strict enforcement with relevant agencies to protect protected forest areas from illegal activities harming the state and ecosystems.
The arrest timeline began on Thursday (21 May) at around 7:00 AM WIB. NRM entered the protected forest on a modified motorcycle carrying logging tools, including one chainsaw, used oil, 3 litres of Pertalite fuel, a machete, a small measuring tape, a file, and a 30-metre rope. After cutting approximately 30 trees, the mixed hardwood was loaded onto a black 2012 Mitsubishi L300 with number plate BE 8922 OY driven by DP. Officers swiftly apprehended both suspects along with all evidence.
For further legal proceedings, authorities have secured the evidence, including 62 pieces of illegally logged mixed hardwood, a chainsaw, and a machete. Additionally, the Mitsubishi L300 vehicle, ignition key, and vehicle registration certificate were seized as transport tools. All evidence will be formally confiscated and stored at Rupbasan Bandar Lampung. Both suspects have been formally charged and are currently detained at Way Hui Class I Prison.
They face charges under Article 82(1)(c) and/or Article 83(1)(a) in conjunction with Article 12(c) and (d) of Law No. 18 of 2013 on the Prevention and Eradication of Forest Destruction, as amended by Law No. 6 of 2023 on Job Creation. “The offenders face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to Rp2.5 billion,” he concluded.