Prof. Sutan Nasomal Urges National Police Chief to Crack Down on Illegal Gold Mining and Alleged Subsidized Diesel Fuel Misuse in West Sumatra
Iji.red | Padang – International Criminal Law Expert Prof. Dr. KH. Sutan Nasomal, S.H., M.H. has urged the Chief of the Indonesian National Police (Kapolri), General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, to instruct all police units, particularly the West Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumatera Barat), to take firm legal action against perpetrators of Illegal Gold Mining (PETI) and any individuals proven to be involved in or providing protection for illegal mining activities allegedly causing environmental damage.
Prof. Sutan Nasomal made the statement in response to numerous public reports and information regarding illegal gold mining activities in several areas of West Sumatra, which are alleged to have caused deforestation, river pollution, and the misuse of subsidized diesel fuel.
According to Prof. Sutan Nasomal, illegal mining activities have reportedly continued in several regencies and other parts of West Sumatra. If proven, these activities not only constitute violations of the law but also pose serious threats to environmental sustainability, public welfare, and the regional economy.
“We are witnessing rivers that serve as vital sources of life for local communities becoming increasingly muddy and allegedly polluted. Forest areas have also suffered significant damage. If it is proven that any parties have damaged the environment or misused subsidized fuel to support illegal activities, they must be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Prof. Sutan Nasomal said on Wednesday (July 23, 2026).
Highlights Alleged Link to Diesel Fuel Shortages
In addition to environmental concerns, Prof. Sutan Nasomal highlighted public complaints regarding the alleged shortage of subsidized diesel fuel in several parts of West Sumatra.
He stated that public speculation regarding a possible connection between diesel shortages and the high fuel demand for illegal mining operations should be thoroughly investigated by law enforcement authorities to ensure transparency and prevent misinformation.
He also called on the police to conduct a professional investigation into the distribution chain of subsidized diesel fuel if there are indications that it has been diverted to support illegal mining activities.
“If evidence is found indicating the misuse of subsidized diesel fuel or the involvement of individuals providing protection for these illegal activities, firm law enforcement must be carried out in accordance with the prevailing laws and regulations,” he emphasized.
Calls for Professional and Transparent Law Enforcement
Prof. Sutan Nasomal stressed that environmental crimes are serious offenses with far-reaching consequences for society, natural resources, and future generations.
He therefore urged law enforcement authorities to act professionally, transparently, and impartially in handling cases related to illegal mining and any associated criminal offenses.
He further emphasized that if sufficient evidence is obtained, all parties involved should be prosecuted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Encourages Sustainable Economic Solutions
While supporting firm law enforcement, Prof. Sutan Nasomal also called on the government to provide sustainable and lawful economic alternatives for communities that have relied on illegal mining for their livelihoods.
According to him, law enforcement should be accompanied by community empowerment programs that create legitimate employment opportunities and improve public welfare.
“Law enforcement must create a deterrent effect. However, the government must also provide legal and sustainable economic opportunities for the people. In this way, the issue of illegal mining can be addressed not only through enforcement but also through a welfare-based approach,” he concluded.
Source: Prof. Dr. KH. Sutan Nasomal, S.H., M.H. – International Criminal Law Expert, Economist, President of the Merdeka Opposition Party, Chairman of the Indonesian Young Advocates Association (PAMI), and Head of the Ass Saqwa Plus Islamic Boarding School.
Written by: Kamidi, CFLE.
