# Illegal mangrove charcoal smuggling in Riau

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/illegal-mangrove-charcoal-smuggling-in-riau
> Updated: 2026-09-23T06:05:25.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Riau Regional Police dismantled an illegal mangrove charcoal production and smuggling operation on Pulau Rupat in Bengkalis Regency. Authorities seized approximately 140 tons of charcoal produced from illegally burned mangrove forests.

The investigation, prompted by community reports of suspicious activity, led to the interception of a vessel carrying 10 tons of charcoal on September 14, 2026. This discovery revealed a production site in Teluk Rhu Village equipped with multiple furnaces and storage warehouses. The charcoal was being prepared for shipment to Batu Pahat, Malaysia.

Two suspects, a ship captain identified as AT and a facility owner identified as AK, have been identified. They face charges under Law Number 18 of 2013 concerning the Prevention and Eradication of Forest Destruction.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-23: Riau Police dismantle illegal mangrove charcoal smuggling operation

Riau Police seized approximately 140 tons of illegal mangrove charcoal on Pulau Rupat, which was intended for smuggling to Batu Pahat, Malaysia. Two suspects have been detained.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/riau-police-dismantle-illegal-mangrove-charcoal-smuggling-operation

### 2026-09-07: Riau Police thwart illegal shipment of 10 migrant workers to Malaysia

Riau police intercepted 10 illegal migrant workers bound for Malaysia and arrested a 54-year-old agent using tourist passports to bypass immigration for plantation labor.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/riau-police-thwart-illegal-shipment-of-10-migrant-workers-to-malaysia

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Cite as: Illegal mangrove charcoal smuggling in Riau. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/illegal-mangrove-charcoal-smuggling-in-riau