Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Ministry of Forestry’s Law Enforcement Directorate General has summoned the board of directors of PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (PT RAPP) following the discovery of a dead Sumatran elephant. 

Found on 2 February 2026 in the company’s concession area in Pelalawan, Riau, the male elephant was discovered without its head and tusks, triggering a criminal investigation into illegal poaching.

"Responsibility for area management by permit holders must be carried out consistently; we are currently investigating the effectiveness of the forest protection and wildlife monitoring systems," said Director General Dwi Januanto Nugroho on Saturday (7/2/2026).

Preliminary necropsy results suggest the 40-year-old elephant died from severe head trauma, likely caused by gunshot wounds, approximately two weeks before discovery. The Ministry is now evaluating the corporation’s compliance with High Conservation Value (HCV) protection and wildlife corridor management. 

While PT RAPP initially reported the incident, officials warned that any evidence of negligence regarding habitat security could lead to significant legal consequences for the firm.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)