Police Close Three Illegal Class C Quarries in Bima

The Special Crime Unit (Tipidter) of the Bima Police Criminal Investigation Department in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has shut down unlicensed, and therefore illegal, Class C quarrying and mining activities. The crackdown was carried out to preserve nature and prevent environmental damage.

“There are three unlicensed Class C quarry sites within the jurisdiction of the Bima Police that have been brought into order,” said the Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit at Bima Police, Inspector Ghufron Subeki, when contacted on Tuesday (8/9/2026).

Ghufron said the three illegal quarry locations that were closed are in Kalampa Village, Woha District; Sanolo Village, Bolo District; and Woha Village, Madapangga District. At these three locations, the police also put up banners containing appeals and prohibitions.

“This crackdown is based on Law Number 3 of 2020 amending Law Number 4 of 2009 on Mineral and Coal Mining,” he said.

In addition to installing banners with appeals and prohibitions, the police also provided education and awareness to local communities regarding the impacts of environmental and natural damage caused by illegal mining activities.

“Beyond damaging the environment, Class C quarrying activities also carry the potential for landslides and social impacts on surrounding communities,” he explained.

Ghufron added that the crackdown is a preventive measure by the National Police to protect forests and nature. Its aim is to prevent erosion and ecosystem damage caused by indiscriminate exploitation of soil and sand.

“Going forward, we will intensify patrols and public education so that people understand the dangers and impacts of illegal Class C mining and quarrying,” he concluded.