Enviro News Asia, West Lombok — The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has raised concerns over illegal gold mining activities in Sekotong, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), located just an hour from the Mandalika super-priority tourism area. The unlicensed mine is suspected of producing up to three kilograms of gold per day.
The findings were revealed by Head of the KPK Coordination and Supervision Task Force for Region V, Dian Patria, following an on-site inspection. He stated that illegal mining near Mandalika poses serious environmental and economic risks, including potential state losses.
“Illegal mining sites like these not only destroy nature but also open opportunities for corruption crimes, from forged permits and bribery to tax evasion,” Dian said in Mataram on Friday, October 24, 2025.
KPK identified indications that the mining operation involves an extensive network, with reports suggesting the participation of foreign workers from China in gold processing activities. Similar patterns were also detected in Lantung, Sumbawa, which is now under further investigation.
In response, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia asserted that all unlicensed mining operations must face legal consequences. “If there is no permit, then it must be processed legally. There is no compromise,” Bahlil stated in Jakarta.
KPK also highlighted the paradox in many resource-rich regions where local communities remain impoverished due to environmental degradation and weak governance. The agency urged regional administrations and relevant authorities to immediately shut down illegal mining sites and ensure comprehensive environmental restoration.
Through continuous monitoring, KPK hopes the illegal mining case near Mandalika will serve as a momentum to strengthen Indonesia’s mining governance, promoting transparency, fairness, and sustainability. (*)
