North Sumatra Government Clears Illegal Gold Mines in Kotanopan, Heavy Equipment Seized

MANDALING NATAL | INDATANEWS.COM - The Provincial Government of North Sumatra (Pemprov Sumut) has reaffirmed its firm commitment to combating the widespread illegal gold mining activities (Pertambangan Emas Tanpa Izin/PETI) in the region. Under the leadership of Governor Bobby Nasution, an inter-agency task force carried out another clearing operation in Kotanopan District, Mandailing Natal Regency, following reports and social media findings indicating ongoing illegal mining activities in the area.

The operation, conducted on Thursday, July 2, 2026, was jointly carried out by the North Sumatra Provincial Government, the Mandailing Natal Regency Government, and several relevant authorities. The measure is part of a coordinated strategy to strengthen law enforcement and protect the environment from the increasingly alarming impacts of illegal mining.

Strong Enforcement of Environmental and Mining Laws

Head of the North Sumatra Environment and Forestry Office (Dinas LHK), Heri Wahyudi Marpaung, emphasized that the operation represents a concrete manifestation of the government's commitment to stopping illegal and environmentally destructive activities.

"The clearing operation was conducted in an integrated manner involving the North Sumatra Provincial Government, the Mandailing Natal Regency Government, and relevant agencies. These steps clearly demonstrate the government's commitment to enforcing the law, protecting the environment, and restoring areas affected by illegal mining," he said.

Illegal Activities Detected Despite Monitoring

Field inspections revealed that illegal gold mining activities were still ongoing, involving the use of heavy machinery. The operations were allegedly carried out by individuals identified by the initials GD and PW. Authorities immediately halted all activities in accordance with prevailing regulations.

Officials also documented significant environmental damage resulting from the illegal operations. This includes large-scale landscape alteration due to extensive earthmoving, disruption of river morphology, and damage to watershed areas (DAS), all of which increase the risk of flooding and landslides.

Severe Environmental Degradation in the Area

The PETI activities have also led to deforestation around mining sites. Abandoned pits pose hazards to local communities, while potential contamination of river water quality threatens aquatic ecosystems.

"These activities have caused severe environmental damage, including landscape and river structure changes due to massive excavation work, damage to watershed areas that increases flood and landslide risks, loss of vegetation, hazardous open pits, and potential deterioration of water quality," he added.

In addition to halting operations, the task force identified heavy equipment used in the illegal activities, inspected supporting infrastructure, and collected all evidence of potential mining law violations.

Evidence Seized, Legal Action to Follow

Head of the North Sumatra Industry, Trade, Energy, and Mineral Resources Office (Perindag ESDM), Dedi Jamiansyah Putra, stated that several pieces of evidence were secured during the operation.

Among the confiscated items were an excavator, batteries for heavy machinery, and other technical equipment allegedly used to support illegal mining operations. All items have been officially seized and will undergo further legal processing.

"The operation proceeded safely, orderly, and smoothly. The success of this effort reflects the North Sumatra Provincial Government's determination to take action against illegal mining activities that damage the environment, endanger public safety, and cause economic losses to the state," he said.

Strengthened Monitoring and Rehabilitation Efforts Planned

The task force has recommended continued enforcement to prevent the resurgence of illegal mining activities. Monitoring in Kotanopan and other vulnerable areas will be intensified through regular patrols and strict law enforcement.

In addition, local authorities are urged to accelerate ecological restoration efforts in the affected areas to restore environmental functions and reduce the risk of future disasters.

The North Sumatra Government reiterated that there will be zero tolerance for illegal mining activities. Any form of unauthorized mining will be immediately stopped and prosecuted under the law.

At the same time, the public is urged to actively participate in environmental protection efforts by reporting illegal activities and refraining from involvement. Cooperation between the government and society is considered crucial for long-term environmental sustainability in North Sumatra. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala