Ratri M. Siniwi Jakarta Globe 6 Oct 16;
Jakarta. Three suspects have been arrested after the police uncovered an online trade selling critically endangered Javan slow loris, or Nycticebus javanicus, in South Jakarta, last Thursday (29/09).
Photos of eight of the critically endangered animals were advertised for sale on Facebook, drawing the attention of cyber patrol leading to the trio's arrest by the environmental resources unit at the Jakarta Police.
The three suspects, identified only by their initials ARM, FS and SP, were arrested in two separate locations in Jakarta.
“ARM and FS were arrested in South Jakarta. They were believed to have to harbored, advertised and sold the protected animals. At the location, the police confiscated five slow lorises,” Jakarta Police spokesman, Sr. Comr. Awi Setiyono, said.
The third suspect, SP, was arrested in East Jakarta where police confiscated another slow loris.
According to Tribunnews.com news outlet, SP —who is a college student — is believed to be the mastermind behind the operations and also the moderator of the Facebook account.
The suspects could face five years in prison and a penalty of up to Rp 100 million ($7,700) for violating wildlife protection laws, if found guilty.
