7 Locations Burned, Police Check Residents Related To Forest And Land Fires In West Aceh

Illustration of forest fires (ANTARA)

MEULABOH - The West Aceh Resort Police (Polres) reminded the public not to burn land, because these actions have the potential to trigger forest and land fires (karhutla) and can be subject to criminal sanctions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

"Until now, we have found seven locations of land burned. We are also investigating one resident regarding the alleged arson," said West Aceh Police Chief, AKBP Yoghi Hadisetiawan, quoted by ANTARA, Tuesday, July 17.

The police chief explained, based on the results of investigations in a number of sub-districts in West Aceh Regency, the land fire was strongly suspected to have occurred due to the act of an individual who deliberately burned.

The police, he said, had identified the perpetrators of the arson and are currently conducting initial investigations at the Johan Pahlawan Police, West Aceh Regency.

"We will take firm steps if the land area burned reaches two hectares. We will process the perpetrators to court," said AKBP Yoghi.

He also reminded that if people are forced to use fire to clean the land, then they must ensure that the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the location. Because, if the fire spreads and burns the land of other residents, causing forest and land fires, the perpetrators will still be charged with crime.

"If the fire is allowed to spread and cause a fire, the consequence is criminal sanctions," he said.

To prevent forest and land fires in the West Aceh region, the Resort Police has intensified socialization to the public. These efforts are carried out through various media, such as social media, banners, announcement boards, and other information facilities.

"So, don't blame us if in the future we have to act decisively against residents who are still stubborn in burning land," said AKBP Yoghi.

The West Aceh Police also emphasized that the act of burning land and forests was a serious violation that had a direct impact on environmental damage.

In accordance with legal provisions, anyone who deliberately burns land can be subject to imprisonment and a large number of fines.