Indonesian Police Identify 113 Suspects in Forest Fire Cases

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has officially identified 113 suspects in connection with forest fires that have burned approximately 4,741 hectares across several regions. This announcement was made on September 4, 2026, following investigations into 169 police reports related to the fires, according to Kombes Pol. Pipit Subiyanto, the head of the Special Crimes Directorate at Polri.

Most of the suspects are individuals accused of setting fires on their own land, primarily to clear areas for new agricultural use. The highest number of suspects, totaling 42, is from Riau Province, followed by South Sumatra and Central Kalimantan, each with 20 suspects. Other provinces, including East Kalimantan, Jambi, West Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan, reported fewer suspects, with numbers ranging from three to 13.

“If we find evidence of corporate involvement, we will take appropriate legal action in accordance with applicable laws.”Kombes Pol. Pipit Subiyanto, Polri

Pipit Subiyanto emphasized that the investigations will continue, particularly to determine if any corporations are involved in these illegal activities. He noted that if evidence of corporate involvement is found, appropriate legal action will be taken in accordance with applicable laws. This proactive approach is part of Polri's broader strategy to prevent further forest fires and deter potential offenders.

Brigjen Pol. Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, head of Polri's Public Relations Bureau, stated that law enforcement is crucial in preventing forest fires and that the police are committed to addressing any reported incidents of land burning. He encouraged community involvement, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities that could lead to forest fires.

As of early September, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that operations to extinguish fires are ongoing in six priority provinces: West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, Riau, Jambi, and South Sumatra. These areas have been particularly affected, with West Kalimantan alone reporting 61 active fire points, leading to hazardous air quality conditions.

“Law enforcement is crucial in preventing forest fires, and we are committed to addressing any reported incidents of land burning.”Brigjen Pol. Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, Polri

The situation remains critical, with the BNPB implementing various firefighting strategies, including aerial operations and weather modification efforts to induce rain. Despite these efforts, challenges such as dry weather and difficult access to fire sites continue to hinder firefighting operations.

In total, there were significant reported incidents of forest fires in Indonesia this year, highlighting a rise in cases compared to previous years. The BNPB noted that the area affected by fires has increased within a month, raising concerns about environmental and health impacts.