In a significant operation on October 9, 2024, Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) intercepted two foreign-operated dredging vessels, MV Yang Cheng 6 and MV Zhou Shun 9, off Pulau Batam for illegal sand extraction. The incident marks a decisive action against unauthorized maritime activities in Indonesian waters.
The operation occurred under the direct oversight of Indonesia’s Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, during a routine patrol near Pulau Nipah. A chance encounter with the dredger MV Yang Cheng 6 prompted an immediate halt and inspection of the vessel.
The ministerial patrol boat, Orca 03, was en route to Pulau Nipah when it unexpectedly encountered MV Yang Cheng 6. Recognizing the dredger as potentially engaged in illicit activities, Minister Trenggono ordered the vessel to stop for inspection.
Upon boarding, officials found the ship lacked the necessary operational documents and had only the captain’s personal identification. A preliminary inspection revealed the dredger was loaded with 10,000 cubic meters of sand, which the captain admitted was destined for Singapore.
The captain revealed that the dredger had been making monthly trips to the area, each time extracting approximately 100,000 cubic meters of sand. This ongoing illegal operation highlighted the systematic exploitation of Indonesia’s maritime sand resources.
Director-General Pung Nugroho Saksono emphasized that no permits had been issued for such activities under the current regulatory framework (PP 26 of 2023), which governs the use of marine sedimentation sand. The absence of appropriate permits confirmed the operation’s illegal status.
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With the vessels now anchored in Kabil, Batu Besar, Batam, the KKP continues to gather evidence and assess the full extent of the illegal dredging activities. This case underscores the importance of vigilance and strict enforcement of maritime laws to protect Indonesia’s natural resources.
This event illustrates the challenges Indonesia faces in safeguarding its marine environment against unauthorized and harmful activities. The swift action taken by Indonesian authorities serves as a deterrent and reinforces the country’s commitment to upholding its maritime rights and environmental standards.
The capture of MV Yang Cheng 6 and MV Zhou Shun 9 off Batam for illegal sand dredging provides a critical insight into the ongoing issue of maritime resource theft. The detailed chronology of the operation highlights Indonesia’s proactive stance in combating such infringements, ensuring the protection and sustainable use of its marine resources.
Sources: Tempo.com, Harian Aceh (2024)
