TINJAUAN YURIDIS DAMPAK PEMBALAKAN LIAR DALAM KAWASAN HUTAN PRODUKSI TERBATAS (HTP) DI KABUPATEN KONAWE UTARA

Abstract

Illegal logging is one of the main problems that threatens the sustainability of limited production forests in North Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi. This study aims to analyze the impact of illegal logging on limited production forest areas and evaluate police efforts to prevent this activity. The method used is a qualitative descriptive approach by reviewing case data for the period 2018–2020 handled by the Southeast Sulawesi Regional Police and Konawe Resort Police, as well as interviews with related parties. The results of the study show that illegal logging has serious impacts on the ecosystem, economy, and society. Ecologically, this activity causes habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and increased risk of natural disasters. Economically, illegal logging is detrimental to the government due to the loss of potential state revenue and creates unfair competition in the legal timber market. Meanwhile, socially, this activity increases conflict and harms local communities that depend on forest products. Police efforts to prevent illegal logging include routine patrols, securing evidence, legal action up to the P-21 stage, and collaboration with related agencies. However, challenges such as area accessibility, involvement of organized networks, and limited resources are still obstacles in implementing prevention strategies. This study recommends strengthening technology-based supervision, empowering local communities, and stricter law enforcement against the main perpetrators of illegal logging. With these steps, it is hoped that the sustainability of limited production forest management in North Konawe Regency can be realized