Makassar Immigration authorities have detained a Chinese national, identified as Wei Shang, over allegations of capturing and consuming sea turtles in Raja Ampat Regency, Papua. He was apprehended at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport.
“Yes, that’s correct, we’ve secured him at our office,” said Makassar Immigration Head Abdi Widodo Subagio, as reported by CNNIndonesia.com.
Why He Was Detained
Abdi explained that the foreign national was detained by immigration officers based on a formal request from the Raja Ampat Regency Government, related to a report alleging marine wildlife poaching in the Piaynemo area. The request specifically asked authorities to prevent Wei Shang from leaving Indonesia.
“We only received the letter this afternoon (Monday). He was actually about to depart, planning to leave through Hasanuddin Airport. When we checked the flight manifest, his name came up, so we held his departure,” he explained.
Details of the Case Still Under Review
That said, Abdi acknowledged that he currently doesn’t know the specific details behind the allegations that led the Raja Ampat Regency Government to request the travel prevention.
“We don’t yet know exactly what the issue is, but there’s a letter from the Raja Ampat Regency Government requesting that this foreign national be prevented from leaving,” he explained.
What Happens Next
According to Abdi, the Chinese national will be sent back to Papua in accordance with the Raja Ampat Regency Government’s request. “The plan is to escort him back to Raja Ampat tomorrow (Tuesday),” he concluded.
Why This Matters for Raja Ampat’s Ecosystem
Raja Ampat is globally recognized as one of the richest marine biodiversity hotspots on Earth, drawing divers and conservation-focused travelers from around the world. Cases like this highlight the ongoing challenges local authorities face in protecting endangered marine species, including sea turtles, in a region that depends heavily on its pristine reputation to sustain both tourism and conservation efforts.
