Authorities Crack Down on Sapu-Sapu Fish Trade Amid Environmental and Health Concerns in Jakarta

Jakarta authorities have detained a vendor selling meat from invasive janitor fish, prompting calls for stricter oversight from local legislators amid growing concerns about the species’ impact on the city’s waterways and food safety.

The detention occurred as part of ongoing efforts to manage the explosive growth of janitor fish, locally known as sapu-sapu, in Jakarta’s rivers, canals, and reservoirs. City workers and environmental volunteers have been conducting mass removal operations, hauling bulging nets of the invasive species from waterways in recent days.

Kenneth, a member of the DKI Jakarta Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), called for enhanced monitoring and enforcement following the vendor’s detention. He emphasized the need for tighter supervision to prevent the illegal sale and consumption of janitor fish, which poses risks to both the ecosystem and public health.