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View all search resultsWalhi calls for systemic reform after 19 fatalities linked to illegal gold mining
An environmental NGO has called for an overhaul of the sector after at least 15 artisanal gold miners were killed in accidents this month alone, while the national anti-money laundering has highlighted that the illegal activity led to billions of dollars in losses over the past two years.
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Forest rangers close the entrance to an illegal gold mine on Nov. 20, 2025, during an operation under the Forestry Ministry’s civil service investigator (PPNS) at Mount Halimun Salak National Park in Sukabumi regency, West Java. (kompas.com/Riki Achmad Saepulloh)
The Jakarta Post/Jakarta
The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi) has urged stronger law enforcement and systemic reform to tackle illegal gold mining operations, following accidents that claimed at least 19 lives in Jambi and West Java.
Oscar Anugrah, head of Walhi’s Jambi office, said strong commitment from both the police and regional administrations was essential to address the long-standing problem.
“Law enforcement efforts must not stop at arresting illegal miners alone, but should also target those who finance these operations,” Oscar said on Tuesday, as quoted by Kompas.com.
“Unless the individuals who provide capital and heavy equipment are brought to justice, the chain of illegal mining that threatens workers’ lives will never be broken,” he added.
Fatal incidents at illegal mines should not be treated as ordinary workplace accidents, Oscar stressed, but as a direct consequence of mining activities carried out without safety standards, environmental assessments or government oversight.
He said stronger monitoring and systemic solutions were needed to address the issue, including the creation of more jobs and broader efforts to improve the national economy.
