The Jakarta Globe, December 10, 2012
Maluku Governor Karel Albert Ralahalu has urged Buru district chief Ramly Umasugi to take steps to immediately resolve a long-running mining feud on Buru Island that has escalated into deadly violence in recent weeks.
“The district head must immediately convene a meeting of community elders to find a solution to the problems there,” he said on Monday in Ambon, the provincial capital.
Communities around Buru Island’s Mount Botak have been hit by a crime wave linked to the boom in illegal gold mining operations on the slopes of the volcano.
A recent study by Ambon’s Pattimura University highlighted high levels of violent crime, prostitution and HIV/AIDS transmissions in and around the mining area, which has drawn an estimated 100,000 people working some 5,000 mines. At least five murders have been reported in the area, linked to disputes between local miners and those from other parts of the country.
The violence, combined with a series of riots and reports of massive environmental degradation, prompted police last Friday to shut down all the mining operations.
Karel said it was important for Ramly to ensure full enforcement of all applicable laws there to stop the conflict escalating out of control.
Separately, Ramly said that thousands of evicted miners were now gathered in the town of Namlea, posing a potential security threat.
“I’ve asked all community leaders across Namlea to be on alert for security threats and not to be easily provoked by irresponsible parties intent on creating chaos,” he said.
“We have to remain on guard against those who would try to divide us. If anyone is found trying to provoke unrest, they must be reported to the authorities.”
The district chief added that police had recently seized hundreds of sharp weapons from the miners entering Namlea after the mine closure.
ma 10 dec 2012 - 18:28