Inp.polri.go.id - Pekanbaru.  Rokan Hilir Sub-regional Police have seized 1,449 protected large horseshoe crabs (Tachypleus gigas) from an illegal wildlife trade operation in Riau. 

Rokan Hilir Police Chief Superintendent Isa Imam Syahroni confirmed on Thursday (30/1/2025) the arrest of a 30-year-old suspect, identified as UST, in connection with the case.

"We received a tip from the public about suspicious activity involving horseshoe crabs. Our team conducted an investigation, intercepted the vehicle, and apprehended the suspect," he said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The raid took place on Sunday at Jalan Lingkar Bundaran, Kepenghuluan Panipahan Darat, Pasir Limau Kapas District. In addition tho the protected species, which were packed 10 boxes, ready for sale, the police also confiscated the suspect’s phone and transport vehicle.

Police are investigating whether the suspect is part of a larger smuggling network.

"We will take firm action against wildlife traffickers to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity," Chief Isa asserted..

The suspect faces charges under Law No. 32/2024 on Conservation of Biological Natural Resources and Their Ecosystems.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)