ESDM Cracks Down on Illegal Coal Mining in East Kalimantan

Major Seizure of Illegal Coal Stockpiles

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has taken decisive action against illegal mining activities by seizing 70,000 tons of illegal coal in East Kalimantan. The operation, conducted from December 28-30, 2025, was carried out by the Directorate General of Law Enforcement (Ditjen Gakkum) under ESDM. The illegal coal stockpiles were located in several areas of Kutai Kartanegara Regency.

Protecting State Revenue

According to Jeffri Huwae, Director General of Law Enforcement at ESDM, the seized coal represents potential state revenue that was at significant risk of being lost. To mitigate this loss, the authorities plan to auction the confiscated coal as part of state revenue collection efforts. This action underscores the government's commitment to enforcing mining regulations and protecting national resources.

Intensification of Mining Law Enforcement

This operation is part of ESDM's broader efforts to intensify law enforcement in the mining sector, particularly against unlicensed mining activities (PETI). The ministry has been stepping up its enforcement measures to curb illegal mining, which not only results in lost revenue but also poses environmental and safety risks. The success of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of the government's crackdown on illegal mining operations.