Police Open Inquiry on Alleged Illegal Mining Damaging West Bangka Beach

TEMPO.CO, Pangkalpinang - The West Bangka Police headquarters is currently investigating the illegal mining of tin that is believed to be causing the destruction of Panganak Beach’s protected forest area. Police officials stated that the mining sites were deserted as a joint law enforcement effort was mobilized to the location. 

West Bangka Police Operations Chief Commissioner Albert Daniel Hamonangan Tampubolon said on Monday, June 26, 2023, that investigators are looking to expose and hold accountable the people who are responsible for the mining activities. 

“We are collecting statements and looking for any incriminating information about the illegal mine,” said Albert to Tempo on June 26. “The location was already barren with mining equipment entirely removed and leaving only two major holes that used to be mining sites inundated in water.” 

Bangka Belitung Police Chief Inspector General Yan Sultra Indrajaya asserted that he will not tolerate any illegal mining activities, especially within the protected forest area and other sites that must be cleared of destructive activities. 

Meanwhile, Alikan who assumes the position of Air Gantang Village chief – where the illegal mining site is located – said to journalists that he was not aware of the illegal mining activities and asserted that he would rather not be involved. 

“I am not aware of it. It’s either local residents or outsiders, which I am not aware of. They can go chase the perpetrators themselves,” said Alikan. “[Journalists] are free to cover this story. I am not ordering you nor am I banning. What’s clear is that I will not involve myself in this.”

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