19 firms charged with illegal mine operation

The government has found at least 19 companies and village cooperatives to have carried out coal mining operations illegally in South Kalimantan, The Jakarta Post reported on Tuesday.

Director General of General Mining at the Ministry of Mines and Energy Surna Tjahya said in Jakarta on Monday that the illegal miners operated in areas totaling 1,000 hectares.

Some of the companies had obtained mining permits but carried out their activities through illegal procedures, he said, adding that the licenses of the companies had been revoked.

He did not say whether the offenders would be taken to the court for their illegal operation but he said that if convicted the illegal miners could face imprisonment of up two six years and 10 years respectively, and fine of between Rp 600,000 and Rp 500 million.

Illegal mining activities in South Kalimantan have been growing quickly due to the lack of attention from the local government. (*)