inp.polri.go.id - Banten. The Water and Air Corps of the Indonesian National Police (INP) and Security Agency (Baharkam) have successfully uncovered a fisheries crime involving the smuggling of unlicensed lobster fry (BBL) in the Serang area of Banten.
The discovery was made on Thursday (4/9/2026) after receiving information from the public regarding the illegal shipment and storage of BBL from West Java and Central Java to Serang.
The team then conducted an investigation at a house in the Nancang Jaya Indah Housing Complex, Serang City. During the investigation, officers discovered illegal storage and repackaging of lobster fry.
From the location, officers successfully seized approximately 47,000 lobster fry, along with evidence including a holding pool, water cooler, oxygen cylinder, Styrofoam, two motorcycles, and one car.
During the operation, officers also apprehended five suspects, identified as A.M.H., N., C.W., A.F., and A.J., who are currently undergoing further legal proceedings.
Estimates indicate that this disclosure saved the state approximately IDR 705,000,000 in potential losses, based on the estimated economic value of the lobster seeds on the black market.
The Director of the Water and Air Police Corps Brigadier General I Made Sukawijaya emphasized that this disclosure is part of INP's ongoing efforts to eradicate illegal practices that harm the state and threaten the sustainability of marine resources.
"We are committed to taking firm action against all forms of fisheries crime, particularly the smuggling of lobster seeds, which has the potential to damage the ecosystem and harm the national economy. This success is also due to the public's participation in providing information," said I Made Sukawijaya.
Currently, investigators are conducting further legal proceedings, including examining witnesses, coordinating with fisheries experts, and completing case files to be immediately submitted to the Public Prosecutor.
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