Illegal Gold Mines in Kuansing Crackdown, Two Rafts Destroyed
The Kuantan Singingi Police have moved to follow up on reports regarding suspected Illegal Gold Mining (PETI) activities in the Ojolali River, Sungai Paku Village, Singingi Hilir District, Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau.
The enforcement action was carried out by Singingi Hilir Police personnel on Tuesday (1/9/2026) afternoon. Officers arrived at the location following reports of suspected illegal mining activities occurring in the area.
Kuantan Singingi Police Chief, AKBP Hidayat Perdana, stated that the inspection was conducted to verify the actual conditions on the ground and to take action if any illegal mining activities or equipment were discovered.
“Every piece of information we receive regarding PETI activities will be followed up. Personnel immediately went to the Ojolani River and found two ‘dompeng’ rafts suspected of being used for unauthorised mining activities,” said Hidayat.
When officers arrived at approximately 4:00 PM WIB, both rafts were not in operation, and no individuals were found performing mining activities. Police also conducted a sweep of the surrounding area but did not find any heavy machinery, contrary to previous reports.
Officers subsequently took action against the two ‘dompeng’ rafts found at the site by damaging and destroying them to ensure they cannot be used again for illegal mining.
“At the time of our arrival, there was no mining activity and no heavy machinery was found. However, the two rafts at the location were immediately dealt with so they cannot be reused,” Hidayat explained.
Hidayat emphasised that the Kuantan Singingi Police force will continue to conduct patrols and enforcement in areas with the potential for illegal mining. Information from the public and media reports will serve as essential resources for police inspections and field enforcement.
“We do not want mining activities to resurface after the crackdown. Therefore, monitoring will continue. We also invite the community to report any information if they become aware of PETI activities,” he added.
Meanwhile, Riau Regional Police Public Relations Head, Kombes Akmadi, stated that the crackdown is part of the Riau Regional Police’s commitment to handling illegal mining activities that potentially cause environmental damage.
According to Akmadi, Riau Regional Police Chief, Irjen Herry Heryawan, has prioritised the handling of various crimes that impact the environment. These efforts are carried out not only through law enforcement but also through prevention, patrols, and responding to information provided by the public.
“The principle is clear: every piece of information regarding suspected activities that damage the environment must be responded to and verified in the field. If violations are found, legal action will certainly be taken in accordance with the law,” said Akmadi.
He added that the Riau Regional Police are encouraging all units to maintain public participation in environmental monitoring. Information provided by the public and the media is considered vital as part of a collective effort to prevent environmental degradation.
“Protecting the environment cannot be done by the police alone. We need community participation. Report any illegal mining activities or other activities that have the potential to damage the environment. Such information will be followed up,” Akmadi concluded.