Banten Regional Police Handles 16 Illegal Mining Reports, Locations Are Often Empty When Visited

SERANG, GARISBUMI.com – Banten Regional Police handled 16 police reports regarding suspected illegal mining throughout 2026 until mid-October. During their investigations, officers often found the mine site empty when following up on information from the public and media reports.

Head of Sub-Directorate IV for Certain Crimes (Tipidter) Ditreskrimsus Banten Regional Police, AKBP Dhoni Erwanto, said that this condition was one of the obstacles to investigating illegal mining cases.

"We will definitely follow up on some of the information submitted to us, whether news reports or direct complaints. However, often during the investigation process, when we arrive at the location, it is already empty," he said, Wednesday (14/10/2026).

To support the investigation, the police implemented a number of investigative methods, including surveillance and following up on parties suspected of being involved.

"We use various patterns of investigative processes. Some we carry out surveillance or monitoring, there are tailings, and so on," said Dhoni.

He emphasized that case handling must be accompanied by sufficient evidence. Investigators need to ensure that the evidence collected can support the continuation of the legal process.

"There must be a process. Don't let us continue the process, but the evidence is lacking. At least two pieces of evidence must be met," he said.