Aneka Tambang can?t continue gold exploration in Cimanggu: Regent

Pandeglang Regent Dimyati Natakusumah has imposed a temporary ban on gold exploration activities of state-owned gold and nickel mining company PT Aneka Tambang at Padasuka village, Cimanggu, Pandeglang regency in Banten province pending a deal on production sharing mechanism with the local administration, the Koran Tempo reported on Monday.

Dimyati said his administration has already prepared the production sharing agreement draft and it will be handed over to Aneka Tambang.

?It?s not a threat, but a rule,? said Dimyati in Pandeglang on Sunday.

Production sharing agreement between the local administration and the project operator is an obligation stipulated under the permit for the exploitation of gold ore in the area, he said.

?We hope Aneka Tambang is willing to sign the production sharing agreement,? Dimyati said. (*)