The Effectiveness of Regulations on Lobster Management and an Analysis of Factors Driving the Smuggling of Clear Lobster Seed in Riau Island Province

Kukuh Afif Nuraiman (University)
Tantimin
Rufinus Hotmaulana Hutauruk

Pamulang Law Review
Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026)

The smuggling of lobster seeds (BBL) constitutes a serious legal problem that has occurred extensively in the Riau Islands Province. The ineffectiveness of regulations and the discrepancy between legal provisions and conditions in practice have led to the widespread occurrence of smuggling activities, causing significant losses to the state, particularly in terms of the preservation of marine resources. This study aims to identify and analyze the effectiveness of regulations governing the management of lobster seeds (BBL) and to explore the criminogenic factors that influence individuals or groups to commit such criminal acts, where criminogenic factors refer to conditions that cause or trigger criminal behavior. This research employs an empirical juridical method with a statutory approach and is supported by primary data obtained through interviews with public prosecutors and former perpetrators of lobster seed smuggling (BBL). The results indicate that regulations governing lobster seed management have not been effectively implemented due to frequent policy changes that create legal confusion within the community. Furthermore, legal effectiveness has not been achieved as several factors outlined in Soerjono Soekanto’s theory remain unfulfilled, including inconsistent legal substance, inadequate facilities and infrastructure for legal education, and the low level of legal awareness among fishing communities. The criminogenic factors contributing to this crime are divided into internal factors, such as low levels of education and inherent individual tendencies, and external factors, including social environmental influences and economic pressures. The strategic geographical location of the Riau Islands further exacerbates this situation. These findings reinforce the conclusion that lobster seed smuggling (BBL) results from a complex interaction of legal, social, economic, and cultural factors, which must be addressed comprehensively through a more consistent, participatory, and educational legal approach.