inp.polri.go.id - East Java. As the dry season approaches, the East Java Regional Police are increasing their preparedness to address the threat of wildfires in several vulnerable areas.
Seven mountainous areas are of primary concern to the police: Mount Bromo, Semeru, Raung, Ijen, Argopuro, Butak, and Lemongan. Surveillance is carried out through regular patrols, monitoring of vulnerable areas, and mitigation measures such as the construction of firebreaks.
The Head of Public Relations of the East Java Regional Police, Senior Superintendent Jules Abraham Abast, stated that these measures are being taken to prevent the emergence of hotspots and expedite fire response.
"We are focusing these intensive mitigation measures on strategic mountainous areas with indications of high vulnerability during the peak of the dry season," said Abast, Tuesday (9/15/2026),
All ranks are asked to strengthen forest and land fire control by mapping vulnerable areas, conducting integrated patrols, and increasing personnel readiness.
The East Java Regional Police are not only focusing on mountainous areas. Several other forest areas in East Java are also being monitored as part of efforts to reduce the potential for fires.
In implementing this, the police prioritize prevention through patrols and public education. Coordination with relevant agencies and the public around vulnerable areas is also continuously strengthened.
Abast emphasized that a preventative approach remains the primary step. However, if violations that lead to wildfires are discovered, law enforcement will be carried out in accordance with applicable regulations.
"The police prioritize preventive measures, but we remain firm in enforcing the law against anyone who violates them," he stressed.
To strengthen early detection, personnel in mountainous areas are also actively involved. They are directed to advise the public to refrain from land burning or other activities that could trigger fires.
"We are also optimizing the role of personnel in mountain slope areas to actively urge residents to refrain from activities that could trigger sparks," he said.
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