Environment Ministry prepares lawsuit after gas leak at Vopak terminal

The  Ministry of Environment of Indonesia (KLH) said it is preparing a civil lawsuit and supporting a criminal investigation following a suspected gas leak at PT Vopak Terminal Merak that affected dozens of residents in Cilegon, Banten.

Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said exposure of at least 56 residents who sought medical treatment constitutes sufficient preliminary evidence to pursue environmental crime provisions related to negligence causing public health impacts. KLH said it will also file a civil claim over environmental damage and health impacts.

The ministry conducted an unannounced inspection at the facility after the incident, which occurred on January 31, 2026, when orange-colored smoke was seen coming from the terminal and nearby residents reported breathing difficulties, dizziness, and irritation.

Read also: Vopak reports decline in Indonesian revenue, eyes CCS investment

KLH said it will support the investigation by Cilegon police. Local authorities, police, military, and environmental officers had earlier secured the site, while the company halted certain activities and carried out mitigation measures. Air quality monitoring later indicated conditions had returned to normal.

KLH has also instructed local environmental agencies to review the company’s environmental permits, particularly those related to hazardous and toxic materials (B3) storage and waste management.

PT Vopak Terminal Merak operates bulk liquid storage and handling facilities for chemicals, gases, and petroleum products in Merak, Banten, and is part of Dutch tank storage group Royal Vopak N.V.

Editing by Alexander Ginting