The ministry's Deputy for Law Enforcement, Rizal Irawan, said on Sunday that during an August 21 inspection of PT Genesis Regeneration Smelting (GRS), Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq found that the company had persistently committed major violations despite repeated warnings and sanctions since 2023.
"We will take firm action by shutting down the company's operations," Irawan stated.
He explained that GRS had continued processing toxic waste, including imported used batteries, lead powder, and smelted lead, without the necessary documents and permits, calling it a blatant disregard for environmental law.
"Moreover, the company dismantled an environmental protection line installed on October 13, 2023, and kept operating without approvals," Irawan added, noting that the firm even expanded its facilities.
He stressed that the government would show zero tolerance for companies that deliberately break the law and endanger the environment.
The ministry's Director of Environmental Complaints and Monitoring, Ardyanto Nugroho, said the company's misconduct went beyond administrative offenses, posing threats to both the environment and public health.
He emphasized that importing and dumping hazardous waste without permits constitutes a grave environmental crime.
"The emissions generated by processing such waste are extremely dangerous. Our team will immediately take legal action and allow no compromises," Nugroho pointed out.
In addition to the violations, GRS is also under scrutiny following allegations of violence against ministry officials and a journalist during the August 21 inspection. Minister Nurofiq has vowed stern sanctions over the incident.
Related news: Need to handle EV battery waste properly: Ministry
Related news: Illegal dumping of imported toxic waste serious crime: Ministry
Translator: Prisca T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
