Tangerang, Indonesia Sentinel — Around 600 fishermen from Indonesia’s northern coastal region (Pantura) of Tangerang and the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) have begun dismantling illegal sea fence Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia. The operation, which started on Saturday, January 18, 2025, targets bamboo fences obstructing fishing activities and causing environmental concerns.
The initial phase of the dismantling process, led by Brigadier General (Marine) Harry Indarto of the Indonesian Navy’s Lantamal III Jakarta Command, covers two kilometers of the barriers. These fences are part of a larger 13.16-kilometer stretch in the Tanjung Pasir area, with the total length of the barriers extending 30.16 kilometers across 16 districts in Tangerang.
“Today’s operation involves 30 fishing vessels of various sizes working alongside Navy personnel to manually remove the bamboo poles, each about six meters tall,” said Harry.
Complex Challenges in Sea Fence Tangerang Removal
The bamboo poles, some submerged 1 to 1.5 meters below the seabed, have been embedded for months, making the removal process labor-intensive. Strong ocean currents and shallow waters further complicate the operation.
Currently, Navy personnel and fishermen are manually removing the barriers using ropes attached to boats. The poles are then pulled out and secured, although many float adrift temporarily in the sea.
“This is challenging work, but we aim to remove at least two kilometers per day,” Harry stated.
According to First Admiral Made Wira Hadi Arsanta, Head of the Navy’s Information Service, the operation is expected to last 10 days. Additional support from other government and private sector stakeholders is anticipated to expedite the process.
“Collaboration is essential to dismantle all 30 kilometers of illegal barriers. We encourage other agencies to join in this effort,” said Made Wira.
Environmental and Economic Impact
The illegal sea fence have drawn widespread criticism for disrupting fishing routes and harming marine ecosystems. The bamboo structures have also been deemed illegal, violating Indonesia’s Coastal Zone Management Law (Law No. 1/2014).
Daniel Johan, a member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR) Commission IV, commended the government’s action, calling it a necessary step to protect fishermen’s livelihoods and uphold environmental regulations.
“We are grateful that the Navy has taken decisive action. These barriers, installed without permits, have been a significant obstacle for local fishermen and a violation of national law,” Daniel stated.
He urged the government to identify and hold the responsible parties accountable for the illegal construction and the costs associated with dismantling the barriers.
“Those behind this unauthorized activity must be found and held responsible for both the environmental damage and the financial burden of removing the barriers,” he added.
Fishermen Loss Reaches IDR 9 Billion Due to Mysterious Sea Fence Tangerang
Next Steps and Oversight
The DPR’s Commission IV plans to visit the site next week and summon relevant government officials to provide clarity on the issue. Daniel emphasized the importance of transparent investigations to prevent future illegal activities that harm both communities and natural resources.
The Indonesian Navy continues to lead the dismantling efforts, with the hope of restoring access for fishermen in the region. The operation underscores Indonesia’s commitment to enforcing maritime laws and protecting its coastal resources.
“This collaborative effort will safeguard the livelihoods of our fishermen and contribute to the preservation of marine ecosystems,” Made Wira concluded.
(Becky)
