Mongabay · Natuur

Illegal Gold Mining Persists in Indonesia's Aceh Despite Crackdown Pledges

Despite promises from provincial leaders to halt illegal gold mining in Indonesia's Aceh province, local reports indicate that excavators remain active in forest areas. Fuel shortages at local gas stations are attributed to the demand from these mining operations.

Residents in various districts across Aceh report that gold mining continues in interior forest regions, even after provincial leaders agreed to a crackdown. Some attribute reported fuel shortages at local gas stations to the demand from excavators working to extract gold ore.

Environmental advocacy group Walhi estimates over 1,000 units of heavy equipment are operating at more than 450 illegal mining sites in Aceh. A former provincial official confirmed government awareness of mining activities in approximately half of Aceh’s districts.

In late July, Aceh's government and law enforcement officials ordered a halt to all illegal gold mining by August 17. However, sources on the ground in late August indicated that many operations continued as usual. Residents noted that diesel is frequently out of stock at gas stations due to its use by heavy equipment.

A resident from Pidie district stated that announcements alone have no effect, as mining groups are strong enough to protect their operational areas. The July meeting also reiterated a ban on cyanide and mercury, with potential prosecution under forestry and mining laws.

The former Aceh provincial secretary, M. Nasir, stated on August 22 that the government was aware of illegal gold mining in nine districts, highlighting environmental pollution, social conflict, workplace accidents, and lost state revenue as consequences. The Aceh police chief called for enhanced institutional collaboration to address the issue.

Walhi's director, Ahmad Shalihin, urged authorities to raid mining sites, seize heavy equipment, and pursue financiers. Walhi's research indicates that 23,433 hectares of forest cover were damaged by illegal mining between 2023-2025, with over 450 operations and 1,000 units of heavy equipment identified. A significant portion of this damage occurred in protected forests and along major river systems.

The use of mercury and the proliferation of illegal gold mining contravene Indonesia's commitments under the Minamata Convention and its national mercury reduction plan. Walhi advocates for cutting off fuel supplies, stopping mercury distribution, seizing equipment, and paralyzing illegal gold trading routes to incapacitate mining activities.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.