Sumatran Orangutan Victim of Illegal Trade Returned from India, Undergoing Rehabilitation in Langkat

A Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii), a victim of illegal cross-border wildlife trafficking, was repatriated from India to Indonesia. The male orangutan, previously known as Rocky and now named Heera, will undergo rehabilitation in Langkat Regency, North Sumatra.

Heera's return is the start of the recovery process so that the animal can develop its natural behavior again. The possibility of release will be determined based on health condition, behavior, and compliance with conservation requirements.

GARISBUMI.com – Heera was previously rescued by Indian authorities from an apartment in Thane, near Mumbai, Maharashtra, on November 12 2024. When found, she was estimated to be 18–20 months old.

After rescue, Heera received intensive care at Vantara or Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (GZRRC), Jamnagar, Gujarat, India.

His return was carried out by air to Kualanamu International Airport, North Sumatra. This process involves the Ministry of Forestry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Indonesian Consulate General in Mumbai, the Indian Government authorities, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), and Vantara. Fauna Land Indonesia and the Center for Orangutan Protection (COP) also support the coordination of repatriation.

From Rocky to Heera

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said the repatriation of Sumatran orangutans showed the importance of cross-border cooperation in saving animals victims of illegal trade.

"The repatriation of Sumatran orangutans is not just returning one individual animal to Indonesia. This is proof that cross-border cooperation can provide an opportunity for wild animals who are victims of illegal trade to receive care and a better life," said Raja Juli.