PT Timah Reports Destruction and Arson at East Belitung Office to Police
PT Timah Tbk has stated it will take legal action following a protest by miners that resulted in the destruction and burning of a company office in East Belitung. The move is a response to the damage to company facilities, which the firm deeply regrets.
PT Timah Operations Director Handy Geniardi confirmed the company is preparing an official report for law enforcement regarding the incident. “We have handed it over, and we will file a police report stating the conditions we encountered. We will report this to law enforcement,” Handy said briefly while inspecting the damage.
Bangka Belitung Islands Police Chief, Inspector General Viktor T. Sihombing, also highlighted the violent incident. While acknowledging that expressing opinions in public is a democratic right protected by law, he stressed that aspirations should be conveyed properly. “If expressing aspirations does not comply with the law, there will be legal consequences. Especially when there is destruction and arson,” Viktor asserted. He added that the police will follow up on the incident by gathering evidence to determine who was involved in the criminal acts.
Viktor also urged the people of Bangka Belitung to maintain peace and not be provoked by outsiders. “The people of Bangka Belitung are known to be peaceful, please maintain that. At the very least, we can anticipate outsiders who might try to provoke,” he said.
The protest, held on behalf of the mining community, took place at the PT Timah office and the Tin Ore Warehouse (GBT) in Lenggang Village, Gantung District, East Belitung. According to information gathered, the crowd began moving around 09:30 WIB towards the Lenggang Market area. The protesters demanded an increase in the purchase price of tin ore in East Belitung Regency. They also demanded that “meja goyang” (shaking tables) outside of PT Timah’s partners or collectors be allowed to purchase tin ore from the community.
The situation briefly calmed when East Belitung Police personnel arrived to mediate. However, because PT Timah representatives did not arrive promptly to meet the crowd, emotions flared. The protesters then forced their way in and damaged buildings and several company vehicles. The action continued to the Tin Ore Warehouse (GBT), located about 300 metres from the initial location.
At around 14:00, PT Timah representatives finally arrived at the location and signed an agreement with the protesters. Following the signing of the agreement by both parties, the crowd dispersed and left the protest site.