The raids also resulted in the seizure of approximately 156.05 grams of fine gold particles, West Papua Police's Criminal Investigation Director, Senior Commissioner Sonny Tampubolon told journalists here, Tuesday.
In addition to the gold, police confiscated three excavators, four diesel generators, and various other mining equipment. Tampubolon stated that some of the arrested individuals are currently facing trial.
“We have submitted the suspects' case files to the West Papua Prosecutor’s Office. Several are already in court,” he said.
This year’s figures show a significant increase compared to previous years. In 2023, nine miners were arrested, while eight were detained in 2022. The total amount of seized gold during those years was 78.76 grams.
While many of the illegal mining activities in Papua involve local residents, foreign nationals have also been implicated. In November 2021, six undocumented Chinese nationals were arrested for illegal gold mining in Sewa Village, Wapoga Sub-district, Waropen District.
They were identified as Ge Junfeng (48), Lein Feng (37), Yan Gangping (41), Tan Liguo (54), Tan Lihua (58), and Lu Huacheng (38).
Illegal gold mining pits are prohibited due to their environmental impact.
Authorities have often linked such activities to landslides and flash floods across Indonesia.
The government continues to stress the importance of eliminating illegal mining to mitigate the risk of future natural disasters.
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Translator: FS Weking, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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