Jakarta Launches Massive Campaign to Eradicate Invasive Suckermouth Catfish

Jakarta authorities have intensified efforts to remove invasive sapu-sapu fish from the city’s waterways, with coordinated operations across multiple districts resulting in the capture of hundreds of kilograms of the species. In North Jakarta, officials reported the capture of approximately 200 kilograms of sapu-sapu during an inspection led by Governor Pramono. The operation focused on local canals where the non-native fish has been spreading rapidly, disrupting aquatic ecosystems. Meanwhile, in West Jakarta, cleanup teams not only removed sapu-sapu from drainage channels but also received incentives ranging from cash payments to amusement park tickets as part of a motivation program to encourage public participation in the eradication drive. Environmental workers in Central Jakarta emphasized that captured specimens are immediately buried rather than released or consumed, citing health and ecological risks. Authorities have repeatedly warned residents against eating the fish due to its potential to carry toxins and its unsuitability for human consumption. The city-wide initiative, launched simultaneously in five municipalities, targets rivers and canals including the Ciliwung, where significant numbers of sapu-sapu have been found clogging water flow and threatening native biodiversity. Officials described the fish as a growing menace to Jakarta’s flood control infrastructure and water quality. Governor Pramono convened an urgent meeting to streamline response strategies, underscoring the administration’s commitment to restoring balance to the city’s aquatic environments through sustained, inter-agency action.