Indonesia Arrests Individuals Over Widespread Kalimantan Forest Fires

Indonesian police have arrested several individuals suspected of involvement in the widespread forest and land fires occurring across Kalimantan. The National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, confirmed that investigations into the causes of the fires are underway.

"We are conducting investigations into the incident. We have arrested several individuals," Prabowo stated in Surabaya on Friday, August 21, 2026, as quoted from a written statement. However, Prabowo did not disclose preliminary investigation results or identify the parties held responsible for the blazes. In addition to the investigation, law enforcement officers are also assisting firefighting teams in the field.

Prior to Prabowo's statement, the Ministry of Forestry had assured that legal action would be pursued against any violations leading to the fires. Ristianto Pribadi, Head of the Public Relations and External Cooperation Bureau at the Ministry, reiterated that the government and law enforcement agencies are continuously investigating the root cause of each fire incident. "If intent, negligence, or failure to comply with fire prevention obligations is found, legal enforcement actions will be taken in accordance with prevailing regulations," he said in a written statement. Ristianto emphasized that residents and companies are prohibited from clearing or opening land using the burning method.

Meanwhile, in response to the thick haze caused by the fires, the ministry urged affected communities to wear masks and limit outdoor activities when air quality deteriorates.