inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Efforts to preserve forests in Riau continue to be strengthened through enforcement against illegal logging practices deemed a threat to ecosystem sustainability. 

The Riau Regional Police's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate uncovered an illegal sawmill in Sungai Sarik Village, Kampar Kiri District, Kampar Regency, as part of its commitment to breaking the chain of forestry crime.

Riau Regional Police Special Criminal Investigation Director, Senior Superintendent Ade Kuncoro, stated that the disclosure stemmed from a public report regarding alleged illegal timber processing without proper documentation. 

Following up on the information, the police, along with personnel from the Mobile Brigade Corps, conducted an investigation and visited the location.

"During the inspection, officers discovered timber processing activities underway. However, the workers were unable to produce a Certificate of Legality of Forest Products (SKSHH) or other documents proving the legal origin of the timber being processed," said Ade, Friday (7/17/2026).

Based on this disclosure, investigators identified a suspect with the initials D.A.S. (28), who is suspected of acting as a foreman or supervisor at the sawmill. Police also confiscated approximately 780 pieces of processed wood, 14 logs, four chainsaws, one saw sharpening machine, one chainsaw, one robin, and several other pieces of equipment used in wood processing activities.

Ade emphasized that the existence of illegal sawmills is a crucial part of the illegal logging chain because they serve as processing points for illegally logged wood before being marketed. Therefore, law enforcement will not only target perpetrators in the field, but also business owners, financiers, and those profiting from these activities.

"We will develop this case until all responsible parties are held legally accountable. There must be no room for perpetrators of forestry crimes that damage the ecosystem and threaten the sustainability of forests in Riau," he said.

According to Ade, this step implements the directives of Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan through the Green Policing program, a police approach that integrates law enforcement with environmental protection.

He emphasized that protecting forests is not only the government's responsibility, but requires the involvement of all elements of society.

(ad/ax/pr/rs)