Sekadau River, West Kalimantan Screams
SEKADAU KALBAR-JAYA NEWS.COM – Residents’ fish cages are dying, the ecosystem is threatened, and worse, this illegal gold mining (PETI) practice is strongly suspected of being supported by individuals who should be law enforcers.
“We at RAJAWALI will not remain silent when we see environmental crimes and if this deprivation of community rights continues!” said Hadysa Prana, Chairman of the Indonesian Journalists and Institutions Association (RAJAWALI), to JayaNews.com on Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025, in Jakarta.
The rampant illegal gold mining (PETI) is occurring in Tembaga Village, Landau Apin, Kebau, Lembah Beringin, Landau Kumpai, and even Koman and Engkulun. The Sekadau Police have arrested several workers, but that only scratches the surface.
“The financiers and individuals protecting these illegal gold mining operations are still roaming free, as if the law does not apply in Sekadau,” he continued.
We urge the Sekadau Regional Government, the West Kalimantan Police Chief, and the National Police Chief to immediately intervene to clean up this dirty practice.
“Don’t let environmental damage and public losses continue,” Hady emphasized.
Legal Aspects:
1. Law Number 3 of 2020 concerning Amendments to Law Number 4 of 2009 concerning Mineral and Coal Mining:
– Article 158: Any person who conducts illegal mining (PETI) can be punished with a maximum of 5 years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of IDR 100 billion.
2. Law Number 32 of 2009 concerning Environmental Protection and Management:
– Article 98: Any person who unlawfully commits an act that results in environmental pollution and/or damage shall be subject to imprisonment and a substantial fine.
– Article 99: If the pollution and/or damage to the environment results in injury or illness, or poses a danger to human health, or results in death, the penalties are more severe.
3. Criminal Code (KUHP):
– Articles 55 and 56 of the Criminal Code can be applied to prosecute individuals involved in facilitating or protecting illegal mining activities. They can be charged as accomplices or aiders in committing the crime.
“We will continue to monitor this case until it is resolved. All parties involved, including those protecting illegal mining, must be held legally responsible!” he concluded.**
Author: RAJAWALI Team
Source: RAJAWALI Central Executive Board
Photo Caption: Illustration (Special)
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