Indonesian police name 113 suspects in forest and land fire cases

Indonesian police have named 113 suspects in forest and land fire cases across the country, following investigations into 169 reports recorded between Jan. 1 and Sept. 4. The fires burned 4,741.89 hectares.

Police said most of the suspects were individuals who allegedly used illegal slash-and-burn methods to clear land near or on their own property. Of the 169 cases, 55 remain at the preliminary investigation stage, while 79 have moved into formal investigations.

Riau recorded the highest number of suspects, with 42. South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan each recorded 20, followed by East Kalimantan with 13, Jambi with eight, West Kalimantan with seven and South Kalimantan with three.

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We will continue to investigate these cases thoroughly. If we find corporate involvement during the initial investigation or formal inquiry, we will certainly take action in accordance with the applicable law.

Riau also reported the largest burned area, at 2,112.25 hectares. West Kalimantan followed with 1,696.3 hectares, while Lampung reported 637.4 hectares.

Police officials said investigations would continue and that companies would face legal action if investigators found evidence of their involvement. Authorities urged residents to stop clearing land by burning and report suspected illegal fires. “Every piece of information and finding related to suspected criminal forest-fire activity will be followed up professionally and in accordance with legal provisions,” police spokesman Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko said.

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Every piece of information and finding related to suspected criminal forest-fire activity will be followed up professionally and in accordance with legal provisions.