Illegal Lobster Ring Busted in Tangerang: 2 Arrests

Jakarta –

Indonesian police arrested two men Friday for allegedly attempting to illegally sell 30,000 baby lobsters, a practice that threatens the nation’s marine ecosystems and carries a potential eight-year prison sentence. The Tangerang City Metro Police acted on public reports of suspicious activity, uncovering a scheme to ship the valuable crustaceans to Singapore.

Illegal Lobster Trade Uncovered in Tangerang

Authorities are cracking down on the illicit trade of lobster larvae, aiming to protect Indonesia’s marine resources.

• Police arrested two suspects,identified only by their initials AA (31) and AR (29).
• Approximately 30,000 clear lobster seeds (BBL) where confiscated, intended for export to Singapore.
• The suspects face up to eight years in prison and potential fines totaling IDR 3.3 billion.
• The raid took place at a residence in Jurumudi, Benda District, tangerang City, on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

The operation, led by AKP Rahis fadhlillah of Unit 4 Criminal investigation unit, began after receiving tips from the public regarding the illegal management of the lobster seeds.Officers raided a property in the Duta Gardenia Cluster Mediterranean complex around 1:00 PM local time on Thursday, discovering the two suspects preparing the lobsters for shipment.

Suspects Caught Red-Handed

“The two perpetrators were found managing clear lobster seeds without valid licensing documents which would be sent to Singapore,” stated Tangerang City Metro Police Chief Commissioner Raden Muhammadjauhari, in a press statement Friday.

The confiscated lobster seeds,identified as a “sand type” variety,were found without the necessary official documentation. Police also seized four suitcases, oxygen cylinders, cellphones, savings books, and other equipment believed to be used in the illegal operation. The total estimated value of the seized lobster seeds is IDR 3.3 billion.

what are clear lobster seeds (BBL)? These are juvenile lobsters,highly sought after for aquaculture and often illegally exported due to their high market value.

Commissioner Muhammadjauhari emphasized the police’s commitment to protecting Indonesia’s marine and fisheries resources and taking decisive action against illegal practices. The case is currently under investigation, with coordination underway with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) for further handling.

Legal Ramifications and Public Appeal

The suspects are being charged under articles 92 in conjunction with Article 26 paragraph (1) and/or Article 88 in conjunction with Article 16 paragraph (1) of Republic of Indonesia Law Number 31 of 2004 concerning Fisheries, as amended in Republic of Indonesia Law Number 6 of 2023 concerning job Creation.

Authorities are urging the public to report any suspected illegal activities or security disturbances by calling the 110 emergency hotline or contacting the Tangerang City Metro Police via WhatsApp at 0822-11-110-110.These services are free and toll-free.

See also the video ‘Sighting of 151,000 illegal Lobster Seeds Worth IDR 15.1 Billion in Bintan’:

lobster Exports-Indonesia banned lobster larvae exports in 2022 to conserve wild populations.Illegal trade persists due to high demand in countries like Singapore and Vietnam, threatening the sustainability of local fisheries.