Minahasa administration rules closure of illegal gold mining

The Minahasa administration in North Sulawesi has ruled for the closure of the rampant illegal gold mining activities in the area due to heavy mercury pollution, the local Manado Post daily said.

The ruling was made by Minahasa deputy regent Boy Tangkawarouw during a meeting with administration staffs Saturday.

The affected illegal gold mining activities, which have been reportedly to use hazardous mercury materials, include those operating in the Dimembe area, Tomohon, Langowan, and Airmacidi.

The mercury content in the environment is believed to have reached beyond the tress hold level.(*)