PT Inco gets ultimatum from SE Sulawesi government

Nickel miner PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk (Inco) has received an ultimatum from Southeast Sulawesi to develop its mining area in the province or return them to the local government, Kompas daily reported on Monday.

Southeast Sulawesi governor Nur Alam said in Kendari on Sunday that the nickel mining company had until Monday (today) to submit their concrete plan in the development of their mining areas. ?If not, they have to return the mine,? he said.

The nickel company which currently carry out exploration and mining, processing nickel in South Sulawesi has also been awarded a large concession area in Southeast Sulawesi.

The mining company received its mining permit from the government as early as 1968 to develop nickel mines in Southeast Sulawesi. The company has even received an approval from the government to extend its contract until 2025, but it has not started its mining activities.

Nur Alam said the local government wanted to get a serious commitment from Inco about its mining operation in the province. ?if not, Inco should return them so that the land can be used by the local people,? he added. (*)