KLH Seals Illegal Used Oil Processing Plant in Tangerang for Air and Water Pollution

The Ministry of Environment/Bureau of Environmental Control (KLH/BPLH) sealed a used oil processing plant, PT BPE, in Ciakar Village, Panongan District, Tangerang Regency, Banten, on Saturday (20/6). The action by the Environmental Law Enforcement Deputy team followed public complaints about pungent odours. Deputy for Environmental Law Enforcement Rizal Irawan led the field inspection, which found the industrial collector and processor of hazardous and toxic waste (B3) had allegedly caused serious air pollution and managed waste without valid operational feasibility permits. The plant processed used oil into Chemical Diesel Oil (CDO) with an installed capacity of 450,000 to 500,000 litres per month on a 2,773-square-metre site. Despite holding an Environmental Impact Analysis (AMDAL) document and an environmental permit from the Banten Provincial Government, the company committed fatal operational violations. Rizal Irawan stressed that a Technical Approval (Pertek) and an Operational Feasibility Letter (SLO) are absolute requirements that every business must fulfil before commencing operations. The inspection revealed that PT BPE lacked both the Pertek and SLO for processing B105d waste lubricant into diesel oil. Additionally, the plant’s distillation chimney had no emission control device, allowing exhaust gases to escape directly into the ambient air. The team collected air samples and conducted odour tests at the source and at the Citra Raya Faenza housing complex. Officers also discovered illegal dumping of B3 waste, including bottom ash, oil residue, and used absorbents, in the company’s backyard without a permit. Contaminated run-off water was found flowing untreated into a swamp behind the site, indicating surface water pollution. Based on these findings, PT BPE is suspected of violating three criminal articles under Law No. 32/2009 on Environmental Protection and Management. The ministry stated it will apply sanctions and law enforcement measures in accordance with regulations, and emphasised that it will not compromise with businesses that damage the environment. The public is encouraged to report any signs of pollution through official service channels.