South Solok Police Shut Down Two Illegal Gold Mining Sites

Rifaldy and associates admit to misusing the names of several academic institutions.

Rifaldy and associates admit to misusing the names of several academic institutions.

The South Solok Police Regional Office’s Criminal Investigation Unit (Satreskrim), through its Anti-Ilegal Mining Task Force, has taken firm action against illegal gold mining (PETI) activities within its jurisdiction. Officers conducted operations at two separate locations in Sangir District on Thursday (27 May).

The operation, led directly by Satreskrim Chief Assistant Commissioner Muhammad Yogie Biantoro, targeted the Pamong Ketek area and Km 12. Police personnel had to endure a two-hour journey over difficult terrain to reach the sites.

South Solok Police Chief Assistant Commissioner M. Faisal Perdana, via Satreskrim Chief Assistant Commissioner Yogie Biantoro, stated that the operation was part of routine patrols to crack down on environmentally damaging illegal mining practices.

“During patrols in both areas, personnel found strong indications of illegal gold mining operations using heavy machinery such as excavators,” Yogie said on Friday (29 May).

At the crime scene (TKP), officers discovered evidence including boxes or ‘asbuk’—equipment used for gold filtration. However, no suspects were found during the sweep, likely because they had fled ahead of police arrival due to a leaked operation plan.

“All evidence was destroyed on-site to prevent reuse,” the Satreskrim Chief stated.

South Solok Police urged the public to cease unauthorized mining activities, which not only violate the law but also cause severe ecosystem damage and increase the risk of natural disasters in the area.

Police confirmed they will continue regular patrols to preserve the environment and ensure consistent enforcement against illegal mining in Solok Selatan.