ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – Shockwaves hit East Kalimantan as around 50,000 tons of abandoned coal were secured in Kutai Kartanegara. The discovery exposes the operations of a suspected mining mafia that may have cost the state billions of rupiah.
The coal stockpiles were found at six separate locations, ranging from specialized loading jetties to mining areas in Loa Kulu and Sebulu districts along the Mahakam River.
The operation took place on 14–15 January 2026 by the Directorate General of Law Enforcement, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, as part of the government’s efforts to enforce regulations in the energy and mineral sector.
Director General of Law Enforcement, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Jeffri Huwae, emphasized that the coal represents state assets at high risk of theft or illegal trade, prompting immediate security measures, including official seals, barricades, and warning signs.
“We will trace the origins of this coal, assess its quantity and quality with independent surveyors or authorized agencies. Once the process is completed, the coal will be auctioned, and the proceeds will contribute to the Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) in the Energy and Mineral Resources sector,” Jeffri said.
The operation underscores the government’s firm stance against illegal mining activities and the mining mafia, while safeguarding state revenue from the energy and mineral sector.
The security operation proceeded safely and smoothly, supported by collaboration across institutions, including Kodam VI/Mulawarman, East Kalimantan Police, and the Directorate General of Mineral and Coal.
With the trail of the mining mafia now uncovered, the government warns that illegal mining can lead to severe criminal sanctions, highlighting the importance of vigilant oversight of state assets. (AT Network)
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