inp.polri.go.id - Sorong. The Southwest Papua Regional Police are investigating alleged hawksbill turtle poaching in the marine conservation area of ​​Raja Ampat Regency. The case allegedly involves a foreign tourist from China.

Head of the Southwest Papua Regional Police's Criminal Investigation Sub-Division, Police Assistant Superintendent Jenny S.A. Hengkelare stated that the case was handled after her team received a report from the Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) for Conservation Area Management in the Raja Ampat Islands regarding alleged environmentally unfriendly activities and the poaching of protected species.

"The alleged incident occurred from September 8 to 11, 2026, around Keruwo Homestay, Fam Islands, Raja Ampat Regency," she said in Sorong on Wednesday (9/16/2026).

The report alleges that a Chinese tourist with the initials W.S., alias Wilson Shang, was suspected of poaching turtles using a speargun.

Based on initial information, as well as photo, video, and electronic documentation obtained, W.S. is suspected of diving with two other individuals carrying a speargun.

"The documentation, which investigators are still examining, allegedly shows a speargun being aimed at the turtle's neck, causing its death," he said.

Police also found documentation allegedly showing the turtle was brought to his homestay to be cooked and then eaten.

However, the police are still verifying all information and documentation received to confirm the facts of the incident.

Following up on the report, Raja Ampat Sub-regional Police Chief, Superintendent Boma Wedhayanto Purnomo, ordered a joint team of personnel to conduct a crime scene investigation. The investigation was carried out at the homestay and underwater areas suspected of being related to the incident.

During the underwater crime scene investigation, the joint diving team searched an area approximately 60 x 60 meters during the first dive. Because they did not find the suspected hunting location, the search was continued.

From the investigation of the homestay and the suspected hunting area, investigators found several items suspected of being related to the case.

"The police have also obtained a number of pieces of evidence in the form of electronic information and/or electronic documents, including video recordings allegedly showing hawksbill turtle hunting activities and photos depicting activities after the animals were allegedly cooked and consumed," he said.

Next, investigators will question several witnesses, coordinate with experts, search for and seize evidence, and coordinate with Immigration officials.

The police will also question the accused and hold a case as part of the process of handling the alleged crime.

(ad/ad/pr/rs)