In a disturbing incident that unfolded in the serene habitat of West Bali National Park (TNBB) in Sumber Klampok Village, Buleleng, authorities discovered the lifeless bodies of 11 kijang (muntjac deers) and other animals on Saturday. The animals, victims of an apparent poaching expedition, were believed to have been ruthlessly shot by perpetrators who remain at large.

Efforts to apprehend the culprits have been intensified by local authorities, who have issued a plea for the suspects to surrender. Gede Darma Diatmika, the spokesman for Buleleng Police, urged the individuals responsible to turn themselves in. “We ask [the perpetrators] to surrender,” he emphasized during a press briefing in Buleleng.

The suspects left behind crucial evidence in the form of national identity cards (KTP) and vehicle ownership documents, which are now in the possession of the authorities. Diatmika revealed, “The identity of the suspected perpetrators in the form of the left-behind KTP has been secured. Also with regards to the vehicle that was used, [we are also] conducting an investigation to determine the owner.”

Eyewitness accounts from TNBB officers suggest that two individuals were involved in the illicit wildlife hunt. The incident unfolded during a routine patrol in the Tegal Bunder region of Sumber Klampok Village on Friday night at approximately 9 pm.

In the early hours of Saturday, around 1:30 am, TNBB officers rested at the entrance gate of Tegal Bunder, which had been securely sealed. A sudden interruption occurred when a Toyota Kijang, ironically mirroring the name of the targeted species, abruptly halted at the gate. As officers approached the vehicle for inspection, it swiftly reversed at high velocity, triggering a determined pursuit that led deep into the jungle.

Upon discovery, the vehicle was found abandoned, and despite exhaustive efforts, the perpetrators eluded capture. Inside the vehicle, officers uncovered the lifeless bodies of the slain deers. It is suspected that the poachers managed to circumvent TNBB guards by exploiting unguarded road repairs.

As the investigation unfolds, the community and authorities remain vigilant, determined to bring those responsible for this heinous act to justice and safeguard the precious wildlife of West Bali National Park.