JAYAPURA - The Indonesian Quarantine Agency through the Papua Animal and Plant Quarantine Headquarters thwarted an attempt to smuggle 25 protected wildlife in the 2026 Lebaran transport surveillance operation at the Jayapura Sea Port.
Acting Head of Papua Quarantine Krisna Dwiharniati said the animal was secured when officers monitored the embarkation and disembarkation activities of the KM Gunung Dempo ship on Friday, March 13.
"A total of 25 animals that were secured are still alive, consisting of 21 Kabare gibbons, two Bayan gibbons, and two yellow-tailed sea eagles," Krisna said in a press release in Jayapura, Antara, Monday, March 16.
He explained that the operation began with intelligence information regarding the alleged illegal wildlife trade that would be carried out through the port. Following up on the information, the Papua Quarantine team immediately carried out a search in the port area.
Officers then found a pile of suspicious items covered with thick cloth and cardboard in a corner of the port's parking area.
"After the examination, a number of protected native Papuan animals were found and suspected to be smuggled," he said.
After being secured, all the animals immediately underwent clinical examinations by quarantine veterinarians to ensure their health conditions.
"After being confirmed healthy and free from the Animal Disease Quarantine (HPHK), the birds were handed over to the Papua Natural Resources Conservation Agency," said Krisna.
Previously, on Wednesday (11/3), officers also found two yellow-bellied macaws in a dead state that were about to be smuggled through the Sinabung ship.
Krisna appreciated the performance of the Jayapura Sea Port Quarantine team as well as inter-agency cooperation in law enforcement efforts at the port.
He also reminded the public about the dangers of illegal wildlife trade and trafficking which can threaten the sustainability of Indonesia's biodiversity.
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