Bandung Police Investigate Suspected Illegal Tree Felling

At least 10 roadside trees in Bandung, West Java, are suspected of being illegally felled, sparking local outrage and prompting a police investigation. The trees, located in the vicinity of the intersection of Jalan LLRE Martadinata (Jalan Riau) and Jalan Cihapit, were reportedly cut down without proper authorization. Bandung Mayor M. Farhan expressed his fury during an inspection of the area last week, accusing the act of violating local regulations concerning trees. He vowed to pursue administrative sanctions, and potentially criminal charges, against those responsible. Responding to the public outcry, the Bandung City Police (Polrestabes Bandung) stated that they have not yet received any official reports of criminal activity related to the tree felling. However, police are not standing idle and plan to coordinate with the Bandung City Government to investigate the matter. AKBP Anton, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit at Polrestabes Bandung, confirmed that while the incident is known, no formal report has been lodged by relevant agencies or the city administration. "We are studying and investigating whether there are indications of criminal acts involved," Anton said. He added that the police are prepared to take legal action if any party feels wronged and files a report. "If the owner of the trees feels they have been damaged, cut down, and rendered unusable, it could be considered at least as property damage. However, we will further examine whether this incident indicates criminal behavior," Anton explained. He also mentioned that discussions with the city government would precede further steps. Information from the Bandung City Housing and Settlement Area Agency (DPKP) indicates that a letter regarding the suspected felling of 10 trees on Jalan Riau was sent to the Bandung City Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) on July 3, prior to the mayor's inspection. The felled trees included five mahogany trees and five tanjung trees, each approximately 10 meters tall. These trees, owned by the Bandung City Government, were planted along the sidewalk about eight years ago. The identity of the individuals responsible for the felling remains unknown, leading to the mayor's strong reaction and the temporary sealing of the location. Source: CNN Indonesia