Tobias Bagubau (Jubi)Ilegal Mingi
Jayapura, 9/2 (Jubi) – An indigenous group has urged Papuan Governor Lukas Enembe to stop illegal gold mining in Paniai regency.
Illegal mining operations along the river Degeuwo in Paniai Regency have gone on for years and are harming communities, according to the Indigenous Development Agency of Walani Mee and Moni Tribes (LPMA SWAMEMO)
“We urge Mr. Governor and his deputy to order the Papuan police chief to curb the illegal mining that has operated for 13 years,” said LPMA chairman Thobias Bagubau in Jayapura Saturday (8/2/).
The group also urged police to arrest illegal mining operators who have stolen gold in large quantities.
Karel Kobogau, secretary of the Independent Student Community of Somatua Intan Jaya (Commission), repeated LPMA’s calls, urging authorities to bring illegal gold mining businessmen to justice.
“The governor must close and (terminate the mining activity). So, illegal mining is causing harm to communities around the river Degeuwo. The governor also must capture and hold accountable the gold thieves for the destruction of the environment and the many problems that had occurred in Degeuwo,”he said. (Jubi/Arnold He/Frans)
