ESDM Responds to Illegal Gold Mining Near Mandalika Circuit

Legal Process Emphasized for Unlicensed Mining

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has issued a statement regarding the illegal gold mining activities near the Mandalika Circuit in Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB). Rilke Jeffri Huwa, Director General of Law Enforcement at ESDM, highlighted that addressing unlicensed mining operations (PETI) requires a comprehensive and legally sound approach.

Background of the Issue

The ESDM's response follows recent findings by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) about illegal gold mining operations located approximately 1 hour away from the Mandalika Circuit. This discovery has raised concerns about environmental impact and legal compliance in the region.

Legal Considerations in Handling PETI

Rilke explained that the legal process involved in tackling PETI is complex and cannot be compared to routine law enforcement actions like those carried out by the Satpol PP. He stated that every step taken must be legally accountable and thorough, ensuring that the actions are not only effective but also compliant with existing legal frameworks.

Implications for the Region

The presence of illegal gold mining near a prominent tourist area like the Mandalika Circuit poses significant challenges. These include potential environmental degradation and the undermining of legal mining operations. The ESDM's careful approach aims to balance effective enforcement with legal rigor, setting a precedent for handling similar cases in the future.