The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), through the Directorate General of Law Enforcement (Ditjen Gakkum), has officially named 26 individuals as suspects in alleged illegal mining (PETI) practices in the Mount Botak area, Buru Regency, Maluku. This firm step was taken after the investigative team successfully gathered sufficient evidence regarding the illegal activities.
Director General of Law Enforcement at ESDM, Jeffri Huwae, revealed that the suspects were actively involved in the illegal mine's operations. Their roles included constructing access roads, building retention ponds and processing facilities, as well as establishing unauthorized gold refining laboratories.
In terms of law enforcement, the suspects were charged under Article 158 of Law No. 3 of 2020 on Mineral and Coal Mining, as amended by Law No. 2 of 2025. Legal proceedings are also linked to provisions in Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Criminal Code and related criminal adjustment regulations.
The profile of the suspects has drawn significant attention, as 24 out of the 26 individuals are foreign nationals (WNA). Currently, 12 foreign nationals are being held at the Ambon Detention Center, while the remaining 12 foreign nationals are fugitives on the Most Wanted List (DPO). As for the Indonesian citizens, one individual is detained at the National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) detention facility, and another is still being processed.
The investigation into this case involved cross-sectoral collaboration between Civil Servant Investigators (PPNS) of Ditjen Gakkum ESDM and the PPNS Supervisory Bureau of Bareskrim Polri. Authorities have also questioned expert witnesses from the Maluku Provincial Government, Immigration officials, and military elements from the XV/Pattimura Military Regional Command. In addition, a series of asset seizures and site sealings have been carried out at various locations, ranging from Mount Botak to the Jakarta area.
