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View all search resultsRiau teen dies in landslide at abandoned illegal gold mine
According to authorities, the 15-year-old, identified only by his initials JA, visited the abandoned mine in Petapahan Village, Kuantan Singingi Regency, with a friend on Saturday to search for leftover gold.
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Excavators are seen at an illegal gold mine being raided by North Sumatra Police in an unidentified location in North Sumatra issued on March 3, 2026. The police raided six illegal gold mines in South Tapanuli and Mandailing Natal regencies on March 2 and March 3, 2026. (Antaranews.com/North Sumatra Police)
A
junior high school student in Riau province has died after being buried by a landslide while searching for gold at an abandoned illegal mining site, marking the latest fatal incident linked to illicit gold mining.
According to authorities, the 15-year-old, identified only by his initials JA, visited the abandoned mine in Petapahan village, Kuantan Singingi regency, with a friend on Saturday to search for leftover gold.
Even though the site is notorious for its unstable and dangerous terrain, people still risk their lives searching for leftover gold from past illegal mining.
While digging through the soil, a sudden landslide swept JA under the earth. His friend, in a panic, shouted for help, prompting nearby residents to rush to the scene. They dug through the debris and immediately carried him to a local hospital.
“However, JA suffered respiratory failure and could not be saved. He was pronounced dead at the hospital," Kuantan Singingi Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Hidayat Perdana said on Monday.
Read also: Walhi calls for systemic reform after 19 fatalities linked to illegal gold mining
Hidayat said local authorities had actively enforced laws against illegal gold mining in Kuantan Singingi, including arresting miners and destroying mining equipment. They have also conducted frequent public awareness campaigns to warn residents about the serious risks of illegal gold mining, including environmental damage, economic losses and threats to personal safety. Despite these efforts, the practice continues.
