Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The number of suspects in Riau’s forest and land fire (karhutla) cases has reached 51 as of late July, according to the  National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).

“That’s an increase from 44 suspects. Please report everything, the Forestry Minister is here with us,” said BNPB Chief Suharyanto during a national coordination meeting with Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni on Monday (28/7/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com..

The fires have destroyed 296 hectares of peatlands, mineral soil, and forest areas across 41 cases. All suspects are under investigation by Riau’s Special Crimes Directorate. They face multiple charges, including Articles 187 and 188 of the Criminal Code (up to 20 years in prison), and violations of environmental and forestry laws.

Authorities have identified 21 active hotspots across 10 districts. Fire prevention efforts include over 1,100 water reservoirs, 980 canal blocks, and 276 watchtowers.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)