Kupastuntas.co, East Lampung - The fire that burned the savanna area in Way Kambas National Park (TNWK) in Labuhan Ratu District, East Lampung (Lamtim), resulted in the death of a number of wild animals such as pangolins and other wild animals.

The TNWK savanna area has experienced severe fires for the last two months. As a result, wild animal babies die horribly. The fire was set by wildlife hunters. The area of land burned was 200 hectares at six points.

Animals that died in the fire included pangolins, several types of snakes and other animals. The animals that were burned only left behind their bones.

Public Relations (PR) of Way Kambas National Park, Sukatmoko, said that a number of animals that were burnt to death were in an unrecognizable condition.

"No large animals died, but there were several small animals such as pangolins and snakes that we found dead. There were also several other animals whose only remains were bones," said Sukatmoko, Thursday (5/10/2023).

He revealed that the cause of the burning of 200 hectares of land in the WKNP was due to the actions of poachers who deliberately set fire to the land to set traps.

"Poachers deliberately set fires because it makes it easier for them to set traps when the wild grass starts to grow again," he said.

In response to this, his party is collaborating with the TNI and Polri to hunt down the perpetrators.

"We are working together to carry out investigations regarding the arson activities carried out by these hunters. We are collaborating with the TNI-Polri of course," he explained.

He explained that currently his party is still trying to monitor fire spots so that they do not spread to other areas of land. Meanwhile, it is estimated that the area of land burned could exceed 200 hectares after mapping is completed.

The TNWK land fire also drew criticism from the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) Erick Thohir who strongly condemned the burning of the TNWK forest.

"Strongly condemn the destruction, burning and deliberate killing of animals in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung. Pray for the safety of all the animals there, including the Sumatran baby rhino which was just born some time ago," wrote Erick, quoted from his Instagram account, Thursday (5 /10/2023).

Erick also uploaded a number of photos of fires that occurred at East Lampung TNWK which were set by wildlife hunters. (*)