Case of Turtle Killing and Fish Shooting in Raja Ampat, Perpetrators Are Undergoing Legal Proceedings

The natural beauty of Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, is not only a major tourist attraction, but also home to diverse marine life and natural ecosystems that require protection. For this reason, the Ministry of Tourism has confirmed it will grant zero tolerance to any individual carrying out actions that damage the ecosystem of Raja Ampat.

This confirmation was issued following an alleged case of turtle slaughter and illegal fish shooting committed by Chinese tourists in Raja Ampat. The tourists concerned were reported to have been blacklisted and detained by immigration officers on 14 September 2026 while at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, Makassar, South Sulawesi.

The Ministry of Tourism urges all tourists to understand that all tourism activities conducted in Raja Ampat must comply with conservation regulations.

"We emphasize there is zero tolerance for anyone who damages the ecosystem of Raja Ampat," the Ministry of Tourism stated in its official press release on Tuesday.

Raja Ampat hosts marine ecosystems with exceptional biodiversity that forms a core part of its tourism appeal. When tourists visit, the experience of enjoying this natural environment must always go hand in hand with the responsibility to protect the surrounding environment.

The Ministry of Tourism reminds both domestic and international tourists that all visitors to Indonesia are required to respect conservation regulations, which among other provisions prohibit hunting and harmful acts against protected wildlife.

These prohibitions also cover damaging coral reefs, as well as taking, harming or killing protected marine organisms. All other activities that carry potential risk to ecosystem preservation are also forbidden.

Regarding the alleged turtle killing and fish shooting incident in Raja Ampat, the Ministry of Tourism has formally requested law enforcement authorities to conduct a full investigation into all involved parties. This case is currently being handled by the Raja Ampat Resort Police and Southwest Papua Regional Police.

Government oversight is not only directed at individuals who commit violations directly. Any party that supplies equipment, acts as a guide, accompanies, facilitates, or knowingly allows such violations to occur will also be held fully accountable under applicable regulations.

Responsibility for protecting this tourist area does not rest solely with visitors. Tour operators, tour guides, accommodation managers, boat providers, and all tourism business stakeholders hold an equal role to ensure all tourism activities operate in compliance with regulations.

The Ministry of Tourism has instructed all tourism business operators to provide proper education on conservation rules to tourists before they conduct any activities within the Raja Ampat area. This education is a critical measure to prevent tourist visits from resulting in environmental harm.

"Our message is clear: anyone who comes to Raja Ampat, or any territory of Indonesia, must obey Indonesian law. If you violate these rules, you must be prepared to face the legal consequences," stated the Ministry of Tourism.

Enforcing conservation regulations in Raja Ampat is a fundamental pillar for sustainable tourism. The natural wealth that draws visitors to this region must be protected, so that it may continue to be enjoyed long-term without sacrificing the ecosystems and wildlife that reside here.