Preventive Efforts In Overcoming The Criminal Act Of Palm Oil Fruit Bunch Theft In Ogan Komering Ilir Regency

Abstract

The crime of theft of oil palm fresh fruit bunches (FFB) is a common issue occurring in plantation areas, particularly in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency (OKI), which has extensive oil palm plantations with high economic value. This phenomenon not only causes material losses for plantation companies but also disrupts security and public order within the plantation environment. The increasing number of theft cases indicates that existing security systems still have vulnerabilities that are exploited by perpetrators, both individually and in groups. This study aims to analyze in depth the forms of criminal acts involving theft of oil palm fresh fruit bunches, identify the factors underlying the occurrence of such crimes, and formulate effective preventive measures to address them. The research employs an empirical juridical approach by examining primary data in the form of Police Investigation Reports ( BAP ) of witnesses and suspects, which are then analyzed using a descriptive qualitative method supported by theories of criminal law and criminology . These actions are generally conducted at night by taking advantage of the large plantation areas, poor lighting conditions, and limited supervision from security personnel. Economic factors are identified as the dominant cause driving perpetrators to commit the crime, in addition to opportunity factors, weak security systems, and low legal awareness among the community. In terms of prevention, a preventive approach is considered more effective in minimizing similar criminal acts in the future. Such efforts include increasing the intensity of security patrols, using surveillance technology such as CCTV and digital monitoring systems, improving lighting in vulnerable areas, and strengthening cooperation between plantation companies and surrounding communities. In addition, legal awareness programs and community economic empowerment are strategic steps to reduce the motivation to commit crimes, thereby creating a safe, orderly, and sustainable plantation environment.