Inp.polri.go.id - Kendari. The Sub-Directorate IV of Certain Criminal Acts from the Directorate of Special Criminal Investigation of the Southeast Sulawesi Regional Police uncovered suspected illegal mining in the mining area of PT APM in Mata Wawatu Village, South Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. Police Assistant Superintendent Ronald Arron Maramis, the Head of Southeast Sulawesi Police's Sub-Directorate IV of the Directorate of Special Criminal Investigation, said that the investigation was prompted by complaints from local community. "On Thursday, at approximately 10.15 am in Mata Wawatu Village, the police arrested illegal miners in the area of PT APM and confiscated evidence, including a heavy-duty excavator, and identifying three witnesses," he said. Furthermore, the subsequent investigation revealed that PT APM had never conducted mining activities within its area. Chief Ronald disclosed that, following coordination with the Energy and Mineral Resources Agency of Southeast Sulawesi, PT APM possessed complete permits. Based on this information, the police initiated a case review and determined that it fulfilled the criteria for a criminal offense. (ar/inp/pr/nm)