TANJUNG SELOR – A total of 35 personnel from the Directorate of Samapta of the North Kalimantan Regional Police (Ditsamapta Polda Kaltara) battled a land fire covering approximately 2 hectares in Apung Village, Tanjung Selor District, Bulungan Regency, North Kalimantan, on Thursday (August 13, 2026) night.
The fire was handled after personnel received reports from local residents about emerging hotspots in the area.
Led by First Inspector (IPDA) Wisnu Krida Bayu Pamungkas, Ditsamapta personnel immediately responded to the location, bringing various equipment and vehicles to support the forest and land fire (Karhutla) response.
The equipment included one Karhutla response vehicle, one Armoured Water Cannon (AWC), and one Isuzu D-Max vehicle. Personnel were also equipped with firefighting equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Upon arrival, officers first assessed the condition of the land, mapped the hotspots, and monitored the direction in which the fire was spreading. They then conducted a sweep of the area to locate remaining flames and embers that could potentially reignite.
Firefighters proceeded to extinguish the flames directly using the available Karhutla equipment. To ensure an adequate water supply, personnel also connected a suction hose and strainer to a water tanker belonging to PT PKN.
The peatland conditions posed a particular challenge for firefighters. Flames can remain active beneath the surface even after the visible fire has been extinguished.
Difficult terrain and limited water sources also made the firefighting and inspection process more demanding, requiring additional time and effort.
After the fire was brought under control, personnel did not immediately leave the area. They conducted another sweep to ensure that no remaining embers or hotspots were left behind.
The cooling down operation was considered essential, particularly because peatlands have the potential to reignite and allow fire to spread beneath the ground surface.
Thanks to the rapid response of personnel and cooperation among the parties involved, the land fire was handled safely and effectively.
Ditsamapta Polda Kaltara reaffirmed its commitment to being present in the community, particularly in responding to the threat of forest and land fires.
A rapid response, measured firefighting efforts, and thorough follow-up inspections were carried out to prevent the fire from reigniting and spreading to surrounding areas.
Reporter: Made Wahyu Rahadia
