inp.polri.go.id - Riau. The Indonesian National Police (INP) Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo instructed all his staff to optimize forest and land fire management in Riau.
The instruction was delivered during a direct inspection of the Riau Regional Police's preparedness for handling and the handover of forest and land fire equipment in Kampar Regency, Riau, on Wednesday (7/8/2026).
"I saw that all stakeholders, including Basarnas, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), the Indonesian Military (TNI), INP, Manggala Agni, private companies, and all other relevant agencies, are all working together. And this is certainly what we need to address the potential for forest and land fires," said Sigit.
According to the BPBD report, approximately 15,000 hotspots have been detected to date.
"And then, during the in-depth investigation, there were approximately 329 hotspots that needed to be extinguished. And so far, some of these hotspots have been monitored across approximately 15,000 hectares," said Sigit.
In this regard, Sigit reminded all personnel and related elements to maximize forest and land fire management, especially in Riau. Moreover, Indonesia will also be hit by El Niño.
"Because forest fires in Riau are different from other regions. So, there is a potential for two forest fires, and one of them we are facing is in July, August, possibly until September," said Sigit.
To optimize forest and land fire management, Sigit emphasized that personnel must strengthen all available equipment.
According to Sigit, personnel must prepare water sources in case of potential drought. Furthermore, education and outreach regarding forest and land fire prevention and the dangers of forest and land fires must be strengthened.
Furthermore, Sigit explained that he has provided additional supporting equipment to the Riau Regional Police to optimize forest and land fire management. He also mentioned the need for continuous communication channels to ensure continued coordination with the Command Center.
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