Indonesian governor offers $330 reward for forest fire informants

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran is offering a substantial reward of Rp5 million to citizens who provide accurate information about perpetrators of forest and land fires in Kotawaringin Timur district. This initiative aims to bolster efforts against the escalating threat of wildfires in the region.

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If anyone gets information like that, we will help with Rp5 million and don't worry because their identity will be kept secret. But it must be true, don't make things up and don't slander.

Sabran announced the reward during a working visit to Kotawaringin Timur, accompanied by key regional officials including the Commander of the XXII/Tambun Bungai Regional Military Command and the Central Kalimantan Police Chief. He stressed the critical need for enhanced synergy between provincial and district governments to prevent the fires from spreading, stating that a collective, coordinated effort is essential.

The governor highlighted the severity of the current dry season, exacerbated by a strong El Nino phenomenon, which significantly increases the risk of fires. He warned residents against indiscriminate burning for land clearing or yard maintenance, emphasizing that current conditions make such activities highly dangerous.

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We need to strengthen the synergy between the province and the districts so that these fires do not spread. We cannot work alone, we must be united, a team effort.

Sabran pointed to specific incidents, such as the arrest of two individuals in Pulang Pisau district allegedly linked to fires at 12 locations, suggesting a coordinated effort by some parties. He encouraged the public to report any accurate information to the authorities, assuring them of confidentiality and protection against false accusations. The reward, he clarified, is not to encourage baseless accusations but to recognize and support crucial information that aids in combating the fires.

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The Police Chief yesterday arrested two people in Pulang Pisau at 12 locations, meaning there are indications that someone deliberately coordinated this. So, if you have accurate information, report it to us. Don't be afraid, your identity will be kept secret.