AHY Asks For Cases Of Disaster Detection Equipment Theft To Be Legally Processed

Coordinating Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono accompanied by the Chancellor of Diponegoro University Semarang Prof. Suharnomo (right). ANTARA/Zuhdiar Laeis

JAKARTA - Coordinating Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono regrets that the theft of disaster early detection devices is still happening by irresponsible people.

"If it is true that there is a case (of theft, ed.) like that, it is very unfortunate because of that (detection tool, ed.) which is very much needed to save the community," said AHY, his nickname, after delivering a public lecture at Diponegoro University, Semarang, Thursday, November 27, reported by ANTARA.

When asked about the theft of a disaster detection device in Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi, he admitted that he did not know in detail.

But Coordinating Minister AHY deeply regrets that the theft of such equipment is still happening.

Moreover, similar theft cases, namely a disaster detection device or early warning system, also occurred in various regions, as also asked by participants when AHY delivered a public lecture.

"Earlier there were also questions like that in (public lecturers, ed.) and we also communicated with friends at BMKG, BNPB and all stakeholders who also have an interest in having an early warning system, early detection system," he said.

He explained that the most important step in dealing with disasters is to provide information quickly and accurately to anyone to take the first step, namely to save themselves.

"How to save yourself and take the right steps because it is the most important thing. Don't be late because if it's too late, it's over," he said.

With the existence of an early detection tool, AHY said, it can provide information early to the surrounding community once a natural disaster occurs.

"If there is time and information spread quickly, then rescue steps can still be taken. So, of course, nothing like that should happen. If someone is against the law, it must be handled legally," said AHY.

A total of three components of the earthquake detection device, in the form of solar panels in Wakatobi Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, were stolen by an unknown person who made real-time earthquake detection data in the Wakatobi area break up until now.

The theft incident occurred at the BMKG Shelter, Sombu Village, Wangiwangi District, Wakatobi Regency, Thursday (20/11) at around 16:40 WITA.

The vital tool for the detection that was stolen was a component of the InaTEWS Shelter (Tsunami Early Warning System).