JAKARTA - The environmental enforcement agency has named the former Head of the DKI Jakarta Environment Service (LH), Asep Kuswanto, as a suspect in the landslide case at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST). The incident, which occurred on March 8, 2026, killed seven people.
The determination of the suspect was carried out in the course of an investigation into the alleged management of garbage that did not meet the norms, standards, procedures, and criteria. This case has come under the spotlight because of the impact it has on human life.
The Ministry of Environment/Environmental Control Agency (KLH/BPLH) emphasized that legal proceedings were carried out after the stages of guidance and supervision were considered to be ignored.
"This law enforcement is part of our commitment to provide space for education, supervision, and administrative sanctions. However, if it is not obeyed, then law enforcement must be carried out," said Minister of LH/Head of BPLH Hanif Faisol Nurofiq in his statement, Monday, April 20.
Previously, TPST Bantargebang had been subject to administrative sanctions in the form of government coercion since December 2024. Supervision of the implementation of the sanctions was carried out in April and May 2025, but the managers were judged to have not fulfilled the obligations set out.
In addition, environmental audit obligations have also been given, but until the investigation process is underway, no significant improvements have been seen in the management of waste management at the location.
Deputy Head of Environmental Law Enforcement KLH/BPLH Rizal Irawan said that criminal steps were taken after violations continued to occur and there was no significant improvement.
"In every case handling, we always prioritize coaching and supervision first. However, if based on scientific evidence, violations continue to occur or there is no significant improvement, then criminal law enforcement must be carried out as a form of legal certainty and deterrent effect," said Rizal.
KLH/BPLH said that investigators had examined a number of witnesses and experts, and strengthened the evidence with laboratory test results to ensure the responsible party.
This law enforcement step is expected to have a deterrent effect as well as encourage comprehensive improvements in the waste management system, from reduction to final processing in accordance with environmental protection standards.
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