Wakapolda of Riau, Brigjen Pol Hengki Haryadi during a press conference regarding the crackdown on illegal mining activities in Afdeling IV, Bukit Payung Estate, PT KTBM, Pantai Village, Kuantan Mudik District.

progresifjaya.co.id, KUANTAN SENGINGI – Wakapolda of Riau, Brigjen Pol Hengki Haryadi, led a press conference on Thursday, April 23, 2026, to uncover an illegal gold mining (PETI) case within the jurisdiction of the Polres Kuantan Singingi.

The event, held at Afdeling IV, Bukit Payung Estate, PT KTBM, in Pantai Village, Kuantan Mudik District, presented the results of the Riau Police’s actions against illegal mining activities from January to April 2026.

In his statement, Wakapolda Brigjen Pol Hengki Haryadi explained, that in addition to violating the law, PETI activities are also considered a serious threat to the environment, particularly the Kuantan River basin.

“Our approach is not only repressive, but also uses a green policing strategy. We prioritize education for prevention so that the public no longer becomes involved in this illegal activity,” he explained.

He also stated, that the Polda of Riau will not allow any room for illegal mining activities in Riau Province. Enforcement efforts will continue consistently, along with steps for environmental restoration.

“This is our commitment. Law enforcement is ongoing, but environmental protection is also an integral part,” he further explained.

According to Brigjen Pol Hengki resolving the PETI problem cannot be solely the responsibility of the police. All stakeholders must be involved in an integrated manner. Moreover, illegal mining activities have caused significant and widespread environmental damage, from water pollution to the degradation of river ecosystems.

In addition to the police and all stakeholders, Wakapolda Hengki also considered the role of traditional institutions strategic. The Dubalang, as guardians of living law or customary law, play a crucial role in preserving local wisdom.

“According to local customary norms, damaging the environment is an intolerable offense. Therefore, a traditional approach is needed, and it is hoped that this will strengthen the community’s collective awareness to protect nature,” said Wakapolda Hengki.

Wakapolda of Riau, Brigjen Pol Hengki Haryadi during a press conference regarding the crackdown on illegal mining activities in Afdeling IV, Bukit Payung Estate, PT KTBM, Pantai Village, Kuantan Mudik District.

At the same event, the Director of Special Criminal Investigation (Dirreskrimsus) of the Polda of Riau, Kombes Pol Ade Kuncoro Ridwan also stated, that as a result of the operations carried out, 29 PETI cases were solved, with 54 suspects charged.

Furthermore, enforcement actions were taken at 210 illegal mining locations, destroying 1.167 PETI rafts and other supporting equipment.

“These actions not only target the perpetrators, but also the facilities used in PETI activities. This way, we can simultaneously break the chain of these illegal activities,” he explained.

Still related to PETI activities, the Polda of Riau are also cracking down on the misuse of subsidized fuel, as this is a contributing factor to PETI activities. In the latest operation, approximately 4,5 tons of subsidized diesel fuel were seized, along with two suspects.

This measure was taken to shut down the logistics channels that have been supporting illegal mining activities in the area.

Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby, in a statement, expressed his support for the Polda of Riau decisive action. He also stated, that handling PETI must be carried out comprehensively, not just through legal action.

“We fully support this measure. Handling PETI must be accompanied by comprehensive solutions, including a social approach and community empowerment,” said Suhardiman Amby.

He also added, that the local government, along with traditional leaders, is currently preparing strengthening measures through social and customary sanctions to provide a deterrent effect for illegal mining perpetrators.

“Not only is law enforcement ongoing, but monitoring, management, and environmental restoration efforts must also be carried out sustainably,” Suhardiman stated.

Writer/Editor: Bembo