Indonesian police investigate forest fires, apprehend suspects

Indonesian police are conducting a thorough investigation into the causes of the widespread forest and land fires (karhutla) affecting Kalimantan and other parts of the country. National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo stated that the probe is proceeding alongside ongoing firefighting efforts.

"Right now, what we are doing is extinguishing the fires," Listyo said, adding that the police are not only focused on tactical suppression but are also actively tracing the origins of the blazes to identify those responsible. "At the same time, of course, we are conducting investigations and inquiries related to the events that have occurred."

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Right now, what we are doing is extinguishing the fires. At the same time, of course, we are conducting investigations and inquiries related to the events that have occurred.

General Listyo confirmed that decisive action has been taken, with several individuals strongly suspected of involvement already apprehended. "That is, we have secured several names," he stated, though he withheld specific details to protect the ongoing investigation. The police chief emphasized that uncovering the perpetrators is a key part of their response.

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That is, we have secured several names.

Meanwhile, Daniel Johan, a member of Commission IV of the House of Representatives, called on the government to declare the karhutla in Kalimantan a national disaster. He highlighted the severe impact on residents' activities, health, and the economy, describing Kalimantan as "half a hell" due to the worsening fires. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported the highest number of hotspots in Central Kalimantan (767), followed by West Kalimantan (560), South and East Kalimantan (74 each), and North Kalimantan (3).

The Ministry of Environment has issued urgent instructions to six governors in Sumatra and Kalimantan to intensify karhutla management and address air quality degradation. The directive focuses on protecting public safety in Riau, South Sumatra, and Kalimantan.

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Kalimantan is already like half 'hell' now because of the worsening Karhutla. The government needs to declare the status of Karhutla in Kalimantan as a national disaster because its impact is very significant.