Thiess mining operation halted

Part of the coal mining operation of PT Kaltim Prima Coal (KPC) in Sangatta, East Kalimantan, particularly which is being managed by contractor PT Thiess came to a complete halt Wednesday after some employees took hostage eight vehicles used to transport mining workers, the local Kaltim Post daily reported.

The paper didn't say clearly what was the reason for the blockade. But the paper said that some employees who had undergone a medical check up made the car hostage after learning that they had to go for further medical treatment.

The paper said that they declined to continue for the medical treatment, and instead demanded a compensation if they would be dismissed from their jobs due to the illness.

The local Sangatta police immediately came to the Thiess operation site, and decided to take over the eight cars to prevent possible destruction. (*)