Leasing of mine equipment also helps spur on illegal mining

The widespread leasing of heavy mining equipment has contributed to the rampant illegal coal mining activities in South Kalimantan, Kompas reported on Monday.

In South Kalimantan, the people can easily buy or rent heavy equipment they need at the local companies without any restriction. The local police believe that the practice has helped the surge in the illegal mining activities in the province.

According to the police, the leasing companies should lease their equipment only to those who really operate legal mining activities. If this system is introduced, it will help curb the rampant illegal mining.

The local police said it would find out in the future the link between the leasing companies and illegal miners. If the leasing companies knew that the equipment they sold would be used for illegal mining activities, it means that they are also involved in the illegal practice. (*)