On June 24, 2020, hundreds of fish were found dead in Kali Baru River, Bekasi.1 The sudden fish deaths were suspected to be caused by liquid waste pollution. Locals had noticed the water had changed in color and smell, prompting environmental authorities to investigate the contamination. A similar event had been reported previously in 2018 when severe pollution caused the death of thousands of janitor fish (Ikan Sapu-sapu).2 The water turned black and emitted a foul odor, indicating contamination by industrial waste caused by nearby companies, one of which was Tepung Ikan Murni Bekasi (Bekasi Pure Fish Flour). The events significantly impacted aquatic life and raised alarms among residents who rely on the river daily.
On July 31, 2021, a significant fire broke out in Duren Jaya, Bekasi city, engulfing the fish warehouse of Tepung Ikan Murni Bekasi (Bekasi Pure Fish Flour) and causing extensive damage.3 Emergency services responded promptly, and the fire was eventually brought under control. No casualties were reported, but the incident resulted in substantial property loss.
In September 2023, a river along the border between Bogor and Bekasi turned black and emitted a pungent odor.4 Residents reported the pollution had disrupted access to clean water, forcing some to buy water for their daily needs. Authorities suspected industrial activities upstream as the primary source of pollution, the Tepung Ikan Murni Bekasi processing plant was one of them.
On November 1, 2024, another fire broke out at the Bekasi Pure Fish Flour plant.5 At least 10 people were trapped inside when the fire broke out, and three of them were declared dead at the scene when firefighters arrived. The survivors were hospitalized for their injuries.6
When a reporter for The Outlaw Ocean Project visited this location in October 2025, the building was empty and the plant appeared to no longer be operating.7 Tepung Ikan Murni Bekasi did not respond to a request for comment.8