Forest Damaged, Lives Skyrocket: Ministry Of Transportation Illegal Gold Mining In Parigi Moutong, Central Sulawesi

The Ministry of Forestry (Kemenhut) stopped illegal gold mining operations and secured two excavators in the limited production forest area (HPT) of Bolano Lambunu District, Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi.

"The action was carried out in a quick response to public reports regarding illegal gold mining activities that used heavy equipment and damaged forest areas in the Central Sulawesi region," said Head of the Sulawesi Regional Law Enforcement Center of the Ministry of Law and Forestry, Ali Bahri, who was confirmed in Jakarta, Antara, Thursday, August 14.

Ali said this step was important considering the location of the arrest was hit by flash floods that killed seven people, the impact of environmental damage in the area.

Balai Gakkum Sulawesi Region together with the Central Sulawesi Forestry Service, Parigi Moutong Environmental Service, Parigi Moutong Satpol PP, and elements of the TNI Denpom XIII/2 Palu secured two excavators in two different locations on Tuesday (5/8). Also confiscated evidence in the form of a diesel machine, nine jerry cans containing diesel, and an alkon machine.

A person in charge with the initials H was named a suspect. He faces a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to Rp. 10 billion. The investigation is still ongoing to reveal other parties involved.

Ali emphasized that Balai Gakkumhut Sulawesi Region is committed to protecting forest areas from forestry crimes. "We invite the community to participate in preserving the forest by reporting any indications of violations of the law in their area," he said.