Police Name Two Suspects in Illegal Mining Case in Lebak

Lebak Police have uncovered illegal gold and sea sand mining activities within the jurisdiction of Lebak Regency. In the case, police have named two suspects, with the initials AS (41) and S (40).

“We have named two suspects in this case. The role of each perpetrator is as the owner of the activity,” said Lebak Police Chief AKBP Arninsi at Lebak Police Headquarters on Friday (28/8/2026).

Arninsi said the illegal gold processing mine is located in Bayah District, while the sea sand mine is in Wanasalam District. At the two locations, police seized a number of items of evidence believed to have been used as instruments of crime.

Arninsi stated that Lebak Police remain committed to eradicating illegal mining activities. He urged all parties to actively report any mining activity without a permit.

“Lebak Police are committed to taking action against any illegal mining activity that has the potential to harm the state, the community and the environment. We also encourage the public to provide information if they are aware of any mining activity without a permit,” he said.

Lebak Police Criminal Investigation Unit Head AKP Fredo Leonard stated that the illegal activities carried out by the suspects had only recently begun. However, according to him, they have had an impact on environmental damage.

“The information I received is that they have just started operating, so their operating system is cat-and-mouse,” he said.

Fredo is committed to thoroughly investigating this case. He is also still gathering statements to determine whether other parties are involved.

“The investigation is still ongoing, including looking into the origin of the raw materials and the possibility of other parties being involved,” he said.