Police Name Suspect in Raja Ampat Hawksbill-Turtle Case

Indonesian police have named a Chinese national identified by the initials WS as a suspect in the alleged killing of a protected hawksbill turtle in Raja Ampat, marking a significant legal development in a case that has already prompted action by international dive-training organizations.

The Indonesian National Police said Southwest Papua Regional Police designated WS a suspect after a formal case review on September 23, 2026. Police allege that the incident took place in the Fam Islands area of Raja Ampat and are pursuing two other foreign nationals described as alleged accomplices. Authorities said they were preparing wanted-person documentation and coordinating possible Interpol Red Notices.

The police statement says investigators conducted a scene examination and collected evidence that included turtle bones and scales, diving equipment and electronic storage. ANTARA separately reported that the suspect designation followed witness interviews and the collection of evidence. The case is being pursued under Indonesia’s conservation law, which protects hawksbill turtles.

This is an allegation, not a conviction. The suspect is entitled to the presumption of innocence, and the precise roles of the other people sought by police have not been established in court. Earlier reporting said the individual denied involvement. Publication should avoid presenting contested social-media footage or training-agency discipline as proof of criminal guilt.

For the diving community, the case is a reminder that conservation rules in destinations such as Raja Ampat are enforceable law, not simply voluntary best practice. Dive professionals carry a heightened responsibility because their conduct shapes guest behavior and the reputation of local operators and training organizations. The reported use of diving equipment and electronic evidence also shows how underwater activity can become part of a wildlife investigation.

AIDA previously announced a precautionary suspension and SSI opened a quality-management review in response to the allegations. Those professional processes are separate from Indonesia’s criminal investigation and should be described independently. The latest development is the police decision to name a suspect and seek two alleged associates; it does not establish the outcome of either agency review or the criminal case.