MEDAN - The North Sumatra Provincial Government (Pemprov) continues to discipline illegal mines that damage the environment in the Batang Gadis River area, specifically around Muara Mais, Mandailing Natal Regency (Madina).
Head of the North Sumatra Provincial Environment and Forestry Service, Heri Wahyudi Marpaung, said this operation was a follow-up to the firm instructions of North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution.
"When the integrated team arrived at the location, the PETI (Illegal Gold Mining) perpetrators knew the arrival of the officers and immediately fled by crossing the Batang Gadis River into the forest area," said Heri via mobile in Medan, North Sumatra, Friday, July 3, reported by ANTARA.
However, he continued, officers secured a number of evidence, and found various equipment used to support illegal gold mining activities.
Based on the results of field inspections, gold mining activities without permits around Muara Mais caused quite serious environmental damage.
The dredging along the banks of the Batang Gadis River resulted in changes in natural landscapes, damage to ecosystems, and soil erosion near the Sumatra cross-road.
"This condition has the potential to increase the risk of disasters, such as floods and landslides that can endanger the community and disrupt national road infrastructure if this illegal activity continues," said Hari.
Head of the North Sumatra Provincial Office of Industry, Trade, Energy, and Mineral Resources, Dedi Jamiansyah Putra Harahap, said that the integrated team destroyed the facilities and equipment used for unlicensed gold mining activities.
"This is part of law enforcement. We also seized evidence at the location, and processed the action in accordance with applicable laws," he said.
According to him, the North Sumatra Provincial Government continues to carry out sustainable enforcement operations against all unlicensed gold mining activities in various areas.
This step is not only a form of law enforcement, but also a real effort to maintain environmental sustainability, protect public safety, and ensure that natural resource management is carried out legally.
The North Sumatra Provincial Government also invites all elements of society to play an active role in maintaining environmental sustainability by not engaging in illegal mining activities.
"Report if you find gold mining practices without permits to the authorities or authorized agencies," said Dedi.
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