OIKN To Order 3,000 Illegal Mining Rights Around IKN

Head of OIKN Bambang Susantono. (Photo: Screenshot/Theresia Agatha)

The Capital Archipelago Authority (OIKN) said there were around 3,000 hectares (ha) of illegal mines around the IKN area. This was marked by the discovery of mining holes outside the licensed area.

Deputy for Environment and Natural Resources of OIKN, Myrna Asnawati Safitri, said that his party would immediately curb illegal mines around the IKN area.

"We have consolidated the data, if I'm not mistaken, there are around 3,000 hectares of areas that are outside that permit. Well, that of course must be brought under control," said Myrna in an online media briefing in Jakarta, Friday, November 24.

Myrna said that OIKN had formed a task force to handle the control of illegal mines that were found by her.

"The task force consists of representatives of law enforcement officers, regional police, high prosecutors, and then also from the TNI, it is from the navy," he said.

In addition, said Myrna, there were also representatives from the law enforcement unit of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), the provincial forestry service, and the OIKN itself.

"The task force was already working a few months ago and is now starting to socialize, then also combing areas suspected of having illegal mines by providing warnings," he said.

Furthermore, Myrna said, mining that had been licensed was still allowed to continue mining activities until the mining business permit (IUP) was completed and there was no extension.

He also reminded mining entrepreneurs to obey environmental obligations, including carrying out post-mining reclamation.

"So, we will monitor this starting next year," he added.