Indonesian Police Seize Fuel, Tools in Forest Fire Investigation

Indonesian police have seized 35 lighters, fuel, and various tools as part of their investigation into forest and land fires across nine regions. The evidence, including diesel fuel, kerosene, and oil palm seedlings, points to suspected arson intended for land clearing. Brigadier General Mohammad Irhamni, Director of Specific Crimes at Bareskrim Polri, stated that the lighters were allegedly used by perpetrators to ignite the fires, confirming the intentional nature of the burning.

“

This is evidence that the burning was indeed intentional.

Investigators also found tools such as machetes, axes, and chainsaws, along with charred logs and soil samples. Irhamni explained that the motive behind the burning is land clearing, with perpetrators taking advantage of the dry season to prepare land for plantations during the rainy season. Some suspects had cleared vegetation months before the fires, primarily farmers and cultivators preparing land for crops like oil palms.

“

The motive for the burning was, of course, land clearing.

Irhamni highlighted that burning is preferred due to its lower cost compared to using machinery, which incurs significant rental and fuel expenses. Additionally, perpetrators believe the resulting ash acts as a natural fertilizer, further incentivizing the use of fire for land preparation. Since February 2026, Bareskrim has handled 89 forest and land fire reports, leading to the identification of 71 suspects.

“

Clearing land using machinery is expensive, especially with current fuel prices and equipment rental rates. Burning is the easiest option.