National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency

The National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim Polri) is the primary law enforcement body responsible for investigating criminal activities in Indonesia. Recently, the agency has been at the forefront of addressing the severe forest and peatland fires plaguing the nation. In a significant development, Indonesian police, under the purview of the Criminal Investigation Agency, have arrested 72 individuals suspected of starting these fires. This action is a direct response to the widespread blazes, exacerbated by an intensifying El Nino pattern and a prolonged dry season, which have generated choking haze affecting both Indonesia and neighboring Malaysia. The agency's current relevance is highlighted by its role in combating environmental crimes and their devastating consequences, underscoring the importance of law enforcement in mitigating the impact of such disasters and holding perpetrators accountable. The arrests signify a crucial step in the government's efforts to manage the ongoing crisis.