Jambi Legislators Demand Crackdown on Illegal Gold Mines Near Bungo Airport

Lawmakers in Indonesia's Jambi province are demanding a firm response to illegal gold mining operations encroaching on areas near Bungo Airport. Legislators express dismay that such activities are permitted so close to an airport, warning of long-term negative impacts if left unchecked.

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We are very disappointed that there are mining activities in the airport area. Law enforcement is asked to act decisively to control it.

Beyond the airport vicinity, illegal mining is rampant along riverbanks, particularly affecting the Batang Bungo and Batang Tebo rivers. Communities reliant on these waterways for daily use, including drinking water, face pollution from the mining. Legislators question the inaction of law enforcement despite clear legal prohibitions against such mining.

Governor Al Haris has instructed the Bungo regent to clear the illegal mines near the airport, acknowledging the challenges in stopping clandestine operations. He urged regional heads and law enforcement to seriously tackle illegal mining across Jambi province.

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I have asked the Bungo Regent to ensure there are no illegal mines there, because from above it is visible when the plane is about to land. Sometimes these people who operate secretly are difficult to catch, and suddenly there are many of them.

Meanwhile, Adi Junedi from KKI Warsi reported that illegal gold mining in Jambi has already degraded an estimated six thousand hectares of land. He appealed to the public to help protect the environment and maintain ecological balance.

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We urge the community to restrain themselves and play their role as guardians of the earth, to maintain the balance of nature.