ASIATODAY.ID, MOROWALI – Security conditions in Morowali Regency, Central Sulawesi turned tense on Saturday night, anuary 3, 2026, after the office of a nickel mining company, PT Raihan Catur Putra (RCP), was set on fire by a crowd following the arrest of an environmental activist by police.
The incident was triggered by the arrest of Arlan Dahrin, a local environmental activist known for speaking out against land disputes and nickel mining activities in Torete Village, Bungku Pesisir District.
Arrest Sparks Public Anger
Arlan Dahrin was detained by Morowali Police at around 6:15 p.m. local time while he was at a community-owned plantation area claimed by the company as part of its Mining Business Permit (IUP).
The arrest immediately angered local residents. Several villagers attempted to block the road to stop police vehicles from leaving the area, but officers managed to withdraw from the site.
Shortly afterward, dozens of residents marched to the Bungku Pesisir Police Sector office in Lafeu Village, carrying torches in protest and demanding Arlan’s immediate release.
“He is not a criminal or a terrorist. Why was he arrested like this, while land grabbing and corruption are left untouched?” a female resident said during the protest.
Nickel Mining Office Set Ablaze
The protest later escalated as the crowd moved to the PT RCP office in Torete Village, where the situation spiraled out of control. The nickel mining company’s office was burned, further heightening tensions in the area.
Residents suspect the arrest was linked to the ongoing land conflict with the company, citing reports that company security personnel had documented Arlan’s activities at the disputed site prior to his detention.
Police Say Arrest Followed Legal Procedure
Morowali Police rejected claims of arbitrary arrest. Criminal Investigation Unit Chief AKP Erick Wijaya Siagian said Arlan was detained on suspicion of racial and ethnic discrimination, and after twice failing to comply with official summonses.
“Investigators issued two formal summonses that were ignored. Based on sufficient evidence and expert testimony from criminal law and linguistics specialists, the arrest was carried out in accordance with legal procedures,” AKP Erick said in a written statement.
Police urged the public to remain calm and avoid violent actions that could worsen the security situation.
Heightened Security After Incident
Following the arson attack, security forces were deployed to secure the area and prevent further unrest. Police also launched an investigation into those responsible for the burning of the mining office.
As of Sunday, January 4, 2026, conditions in Torete Village were reported to be gradually stabilizing, although tensions between local communities, law enforcement, and the nickel mining company remain high. (AT Network)
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