In response to the recent arrest of two foreign vessels illegally dredging sea sand in Batam, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) announced that it will enhance surveillance of the region’s waters. The move aims to prevent further unlawful activities and tighten security around Indonesia’s territorial waters.
Following the capture of two foreign ships, MV Yang Cheng 6 and MV Zhou Shun 9, by the KKP, authorities have intensified efforts to monitor Batam’s waters. These Singapore-flagged vessels were caught illegally extracting sea sand, raising concerns about maritime security and environmental protection in Indonesia’s waters.
The KKP spokesperson, Wahyu Muryadi, confirmed that the ministry would deploy increased monitoring efforts to safeguard Batam’s waters. The ministry’s various departments, including the Directorate General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP), will be actively involved in this expanded surveillance mission. Wahyu emphasized that Batam’s strategic location requires extra vigilance due to heightened maritime traffic.
The decision to boost monitoring came after two large dredger vessels were intercepted by KKP’s surveillance team in Batam waters on October 9, 2024. Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, personally led the operation when his patrol boat, Orca 003, came across one of the illegal vessels. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the ship lacked proper documentation and was actively involved in illegal sand extraction.
Despite limited resources, including a shortage of patrol vessels and budget constraints, the KKP is committed to conducting regular monitoring. The surveillance strategy will focus on specific zones as defined by the national fisheries management areas (WPP). “It’s a vast ocean to cover, but we will ensure compliance with the regulations in place,” Wahyu said, acknowledging the logistical challenges.
The two captured vessels, MV Yang Cheng 6 and MV Zhou Shun 9, were found to be transporting large amounts of sea sand without authorization. The discovery highlights ongoing illegal operations in Indonesia’s maritime borders, particularly around Batam, a region often targeted due to its proximity to international shipping lanes and its resource-rich seabed.
Read More: Chronology of the Capture of Foreign Dredging Ships in Batam, Sand Destined for Singapore
The KKP’s recent actions are part of a broader initiative to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and maritime violations. The arrest of the two vessels is a significant step in addressing environmental degradation and protecting Indonesia’s coastal resources from exploitation by foreign entities.
This incident underscores the need for continuous and enhanced monitoring of Indonesia’s waters, especially in resource-rich regions like Batam. The government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal maritime activities will not only protect natural resources but also bolster the country’s maritime sovereignty.
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) will intensify its monitoring of Batam’s waters following the capture of two foreign dredging ships involved in illegal sand extraction. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono personally led the operation, signaling the government’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime resources despite logistical challenges.
Source: Tempo (2024)
