Police Raid Two Illegal Gold Mines, Here's What They Found

The Kampar Resort Police in Riau have raided unlicensed gold mining (PETI) activities in Suka Makmur Village. The action was carried out at two different locations to halt the illegal mining practices that are damaging the ecosystem in the area.

Kampar Police Chief AKBP Boby Putra Ramadhan stressed his force’s commitment to continuously eradicating all forms of illegal mining in the region. This law enforcement aims to protect public safety and prevent state losses resulting from the exploitation of natural resources.

“We will not provide any space for Unlicensed Gold Mining (PETI) activities within the jurisdiction of the Kampar Police. Law enforcement will continue to be carried out firmly and sustainably,” he said in an official statement on Friday (17/7/2026).

The operation stemmed from a public report suspecting gold mining activities using suction machines along the riverbank on Tuesday (14/7/2026). Following up on the tip, the Kampar Police Criminal Investigation Unit deployed two teams to the site and managed to secure two suspected perpetrators, identified by the initials TR (33) and S (57), after a brief chase.

“Besides causing state losses, PETI activities also have a major impact on environmental damage and endanger public safety,” said Boby.

His team confiscated a number of pieces of evidence, including suction machines, hoses, and other supporting equipment from the raid locations. In addition, authorities also destroyed 12 mining raft units found at the two sites to ensure the illegal mining activities do not recur.

“We urge all members of the public not to engage in illegal mining activities and to immediately report if they are aware of any PETI practices in their area,” he explained.

The suspects and the evidence are currently being held at the Kampar Police Headquarters to undergo further investigation. Both are charged with violating Article 158 of Law Number 3 of 2020 concerning Amendments to Law Number 4 of 2009 on Mineral and Coal Mining, which carries a penalty of imprisonment.