Ditpolairud Polda Sulteng Mengungkap 3 Kasus Pengeboman Ikan, 5 Pelaku Berisiko Dipenjara Selama 6 Tahun

Ditpolairud Polda Sulteng has successfully apprehended 5 suspected perpetrators of fish bombing, a destructive fishing method, on Thursday (22/8/2024). This illegal practice continues to occur in the waters of Central Sulawesi.

According to AKBP Sugeng Lestari, the Head of Public Relations Subdivision of Bidhumas at Polda Sulteng, the police force recently uncovered 3 cases of destructive fishing within a span of 2 consecutive days. This revelation was made during a press conference held at the Mako Ditpolairud Polda Sulteng in Desa Wani, Donggala Regency, on Thursday.

Sugeng stated, „There have been 3 cases of destructive fishing uncovered by the Ditpolairud Polda Sulteng within 2 consecutive days.“ The first incident took place on July 18, 2024, in Teluk Tomini, Desa Sejoli, Moutong District, Parigi Moutong Regency. The police arrested 3 suspects with the initials I (41), D (37), and K (48), who are residents of Desa Torsiaji, Popayato District, Bualemo Regency, Gorontalo. Along with the suspects, the police also seized 15 bottles of explosives, 60 kilograms of fish, and other equipment.

The second case occurred on August 18, 2024, where a suspect with the initial S (43) from Desa Buton, Bungku Selatan District, Morowali Regency, was apprehended. The incident took place in the waters of Desa Jawi-Jawi, Bungku Selatan District, with evidence including 4 bottles of explosives, 5 kilograms of captured fish, and other equipment.

The third case unfolded on August 19, 2024, in the coastal waters of Desa Rata, Toili Barat District, Banggai Regency. A suspect with the initial F (20) from Desa Rata was arrested along with 8 bottles of fish bombs, 10 kilograms of captured fish, and other tools.

The series of arrests made by Ditpolairud Polda Sulteng highlights the ongoing issue of destructive fishing in the region. This illegal practice not only harms marine ecosystems but also threatens the livelihoods of local fishermen who rely on sustainable fishing methods.

The efforts of the police force in combating destructive fishing are commendable, as they work towards preserving the marine biodiversity of Central Sulawesi. It is crucial for authorities to continue enforcing strict measures to deter individuals from engaging in such harmful practices and to protect the marine environment for future generations.