Cerenti police raid illegal gold mining site in Kuantan Singingi following public complaints over environmental damage risks. (POLRI)
On January 19, the Riau provincial government of Indonesia is ready to legalise 30 blocks of illegal gold mines in Kuantan Singingi Regency covering around 2,600 hectares. This decision was taken after a directive from the country’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
However, the move has sparked debates and criticism from environmental organisations. One concern is regarding the detrimental effects that will potentially cause ‘chronic mercury pollution, watershed degradation, recurrent flooding, and public health threats.’
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