Muba Police Uncover 5 Illegal Drilling Cases Throughout 2026
Musi Banyuasin, VIVA – The Musi Banyuasin Police (Polres Muba) continue to intensify efforts to mitigate illegal drilling and illegal refinery activities in their region. This is carried out through preemptive, preventive, and law enforcement (gakkum) approaches.
From January to March 2026, a total of 242 preemptive activities and 408 preventive activities have been recorded. Meanwhile, law enforcement has noted 5 cases.
Muba Police Chief AKBP Ruri Prastowo stated that these illegal activities have become increasingly complex as they now touch on social and economic aspects of the community. In addition to being unlawful, these practices also pose risks to residents’ safety and impact environmental pollution.
“We detail that in January 2026, 80 preemptive activities and 180 preventive ones were conducted. Law enforcement recorded 3 cases, consisting of 1 case of fire at an illegal oil well and 2 cases of fire at illegal refining operations, which we have firmly addressed,” he said.
Then in February 2026, preemptive activities increased to 100 and preventive to 195 activities. One law enforcement case was handled related to a fire at an illegal oil refining.
Meanwhile, in March 2026, 62 preemptive activities and 33 preventive ones were recorded. Law enforcement covered 1 case of fuel adulteration.
“Polres Muba continues to conduct counselling, socialisation, and banner installations to prevent the public from getting involved in high-risk illegal activities,” Ruri explained.
According to Ruri, they also regularly conduct patrols and monitoring in areas prone to illegal drilling and refining. Coordination with local government and stakeholders is also carried out to find comprehensive solutions.
“On the other hand, we at Polres Muba are pushing for the implementation of Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Regulation No. 14 of 2025 regarding cooperation in managing oil and gas working areas. We hope this regulation can provide legal certainty for communities managing people’s oil wells,” he clarified.
He believes that handling illegal drilling cannot rely solely on law enforcement. A comprehensive approach from upstream to downstream is needed, considering that some communities depend on these activities for their livelihood.
“Synergy and commitment from all parties are required to create long-term solutions that prioritise public safety and environmental sustainability,” he emphasised.
These efforts are expected to maintain security and public order (kamtibmas) in Musi Banyuasin Regency in a safe and conducive manner.