inp.polri.go.id - Serang. The Banten Regional Police have uncovered a criminal case of illegal mining committed by seven suspects. The suspects carried out the illegal mining activities at several locations in Lebak Regency.

"They excavated the coal using heavy equipment, washed it in a water pond to separate the soil and sand, and then collected it, selling it to buyers who came to the location," explained Banten Regional Police Chief Inspector General Hengki, Tuesday (5/5/2026).

Hengki explained that the illegal coal mining took place in the Perhutani forest area in Cibobos Hamlet, Karangka Mulyan Village, Cihara District. The perpetrators dug the ground until they found a coal seam.

"They then collected it to sell it to collectors. The gold mining took place in the Mount Halimun Salak National Park area, Ciengang Block, Cibeber District.. The gold was mined to extract gold-bearing rocks, which were then transported to a processing location. They were then ground and ground using a rolling iron to form a fine powder, and then soaked in a pond for approximately three days," he explained.

The Banten Regional Police Chief stated that the seven arrested suspects were ES (36), SA (46), AH (46), SD (47), KA (47), AD (46), and AN (47). One more suspect is still under investigation.

For their actions, the perpetrators are being charged under Article 89 paragraph (1) letter a of Law Number 18 of 2013 concerning the Prevention and Eradication of Forest Destruction, as well as Article 158 and/or Article 161 of Law Number 3 of 2020 concerning Mineral and Coal Mining, in conjunction with Law Number 1 of 2023 concerning the Criminal Code and Law Number 1 of 2026 concerning Criminal Adjustments, with a maximum penalty of 15 years' imprisonment and a maximum fine of IDR 100 billion.

"These suspects acted as owners of illegal mining operations, with the motive of gaining personal economic gain from unlicensed mining activities," he said.

(ad/ay/pr/rs)