ASIATODAY.ID, KETAPANG — A serious security incident has unfolded at a gold mining site in Tumbang Titi District, Ketapang Regency, West Kalimantan, involving foreign workers, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and an ongoing corporate and legal dispute.
Authorities have detained 15 Chinese nationals following an alleged violent clash with five Indonesian Army personnel and a mine security officer at a gold mine operated by PT Sultan Rafli Mandiri (PT SRM).
The case has drawn national attention as it raises concerns over foreign workers in strategic mining areas, immigration compliance, and the role of state security forces in disputed mining concessions.
Immigration Authorities Examine Legal Status of Chinese Nationals
The Ketapang Class II Non-TPI Immigration Office confirmed that all 15 Chinese nationals have been taken in for a comprehensive immigration review to determine whether any violations of Indonesian immigration law have occurred.
Head of Immigration Information and Communication Technology Section, Ida Bagus Putu Widia Kusuma, stated that the examination process is ongoing.
“Yes, they have been brought to the Ketapang Immigration Office. We are currently examining whether there are any immigration violations,” he said on December 16, 2025.
Immigration authorities emphasized that all foreign nationals are required to strictly comply with Indonesian laws and regulations, regardless of their employment status or permits.
KITAS Holders Sponsored by Mining Company
Preliminary findings indicate that the 15 Chinese nationals are holders of Temporary Stay Permits (KITAS) sponsored by PT SRM under its previous management.
In Indonesia, a KITAS allows foreign nationals to legally reside and work for a limited period—typically six months to two years, with the option for renewal. However, officials stressed that holding a KITAS does not exempt foreign nationals from criminal liability.
Drone Activity Allegedly Triggered the Clash
According to authorities, the incident began when four Chinese nationals were observed operating a drone within the gold mining area. Indonesian Army personnel, who were conducting a routine unit training exercise nearby, approached the individuals to seek clarification.
Moments later, 11 additional Chinese nationals reportedly arrived at the scene, allegedly launching an attack using sharp weapons, airsoft guns, and electric shock devices.
As a result of the clash:
Five Indonesian Army soldiers and one mine security officer were assaulted
One company operational vehicle (Toyota Hilux) sustained severe damage
One employee motorcycle was also vandalized
No fatalities were reported.
Police and Military Commanders Inspect the Site
Ketapang Police Chief AKBP Muhammad Harris and Commander of Kodim 1203/Ketapang Lieutenant Colonel Abu Hanifah visited the mining site to assess the situation and gather preliminary information.
Law enforcement authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact motive, including whether the incident is linked to disputes over the mine’s legal status.
PT SRM Questions Military Presence at Mining Area
Amid the investigation, PT SRM’s Director Li Changjin publicly questioned the presence of Indonesian military personnel at the mining site, claiming the area remains under legal dispute.
“Why was the military present at a mine that is still under litigation at the Administrative Court and under investigation by the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit?” Li said in a written statement.
Li acknowledged that Chinese nationals were employed as technical staff to operate drones but insisted the activity took place within the company’s own concession and not in a restricted or military zone.
Company Denies Allegations of Armed Assault
PT SRM strongly denied claims that its Chinese technical staff attacked Indonesian soldiers or carried illegal weapons.
Li asserted that the company’s personnel did not possess sharp weapons, airsoft guns, or electric shock devices, and denied responsibility for any vehicle damage.
He further claimed that drone equipment and mobile phones belonging to staff were confiscated, footage deleted, and later returned by military personnel.
Internal Dispute and Alleged Illegal Occupation
PT SRM also denied any affiliation with Imran Kurniawan, an individual claiming to be the company’s Chief Security Officer.
According to Li, Imran and his associates are suspected of illegally occupying the mining site using falsified corporate documents. The matter is currently under investigation by the National Police Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim).
Indonesian Army Releases Official Version of Events
The Indonesian Army, through Colonel Eko Wardono, Head of Public Affairs for Kodam XII/Tanjungpura, stated that the incident occurred while soldiers from Yonzipur 6/Satya Digdaya were conducting an internal training exercise.
When soldiers attempted to question four drone operators, they were allegedly attacked by a larger group of foreign nationals.
“Eleven other foreign nationals suddenly appeared and assaulted our personnel using sharp weapons, airsoft guns, and electric shock devices,” Eko said.
The Army confirmed that no soldiers were killed or seriously injured during the incident.
National Spotlight on Foreign Workers and Mining Security
The Ketapang gold mine incident has reignited public debate in Indonesia over:
Oversight of foreign workers in the mining sector
Security of strategic natural resource sites
The role of state security forces in disputed mining concessions
Police, military, and immigration authorities continue to coordinate efforts to ensure the case is resolved through legal, transparent, and accountable processes. (AT Network)
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