Two detained over suspected illegal logging in Jembrana protected forest

Berangbang Village — Jembrana police and the Bali Barat Forest Management Unit detained two residents on Thursday, 1 October 2026, over suspected illegal logging in a protected forest in Berangbang Village, Jembrana.

Why it matters: The case concerns suspected logging in a protected forest and involves about 2,000 square metres of affected area, with police continuing to investigate permits and timber origins.

Officials acted after receiving a public report about tree felling and bamboo burning in a state forest. An initial inspection indicated that three trees had been felled and two bamboo clumps burned in Block Utilisation Area Plot HL-100.

The affected area covers about 20 are, equivalent to approximately 2,000 square metres, and is outside Berangbang Village’s Social Forestry area, according to reporting by Detik Bali.

The detainees were identified by initials as IGS, 55, and IGKL, 49, both residents of Negara District, Balipost reported. Police seized 23 processed bayur-wood logs and two chainsaws during the operation.

Detik Bali reported that officers also secured dozens of cut logs in beam form and logging equipment. Police said the exact quantity of evidence was still being assessed as the investigation continued.

Investigation continues

Police are examining the legal status of the site, whether any permits existed, the origin of the timber and the respective involvement of the two men, according to the Jembrana criminal investigation unit as quoted by Balipost.

The case remains under investigation. The authorities have not announced a final legal classification or a court decision.

Sources

• Detik Bali
• Balipost