Tapir in Mesuji Killed by Residents, Conservation Agency Issues Warning

A large tapir, a protected species, was killed by residents in Mesuji, Lampung province, after being speared and subsequently butchered. The incident gained widespread attention after videos of the tapir walking on a road and the subsequent killing circulated on social media.

Four residents involved in the killing have been arrested. The videos showed the tapir walking calmly on the road, with some motorists slowing down or stopping to observe the black and white creature. However, one resident pursued and speared the animal, after which it was butchled and the meat distributed among locals.

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Yes, we have received information that the tapir that went viral in Mesuji has been killed and butchered by residents. Currently, our team is also heading to the location to communicate with the Polres [resort police] and conduct a direct review.

The Bengkulu Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA) is currently investigating the full details of the incident. Head of the Lampung III Conservation Area Section, Itno Itoyo, confirmed that the BKSDA had received video clips of the tapir on July 2 and initially believed residents might be attempting a rescue.

Following the incident, the BKSDA issued appeals via social media, urging the public to refrain from actions that could endanger wild animals or themselves. The agency's team is en route to the location to communicate with the local police and conduct an on-site review to ascertain the complete chronology of events.

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So we have issued appeals through social media to prevent the public from taking actions that could endanger wild animals or residents' safety.