ESDM Ban Freeport from Operating Amid Probe

ESDM Ban Freeport from Operating Amid Probe

Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry (ESDM) has prohibited mining giant PT Freeport Indonesia from continuing its production activity amid the ongoing investigation into an accident in Big Gossan, Papua, that killed 28 workers.

ESDM director general for minerals and coal Thamrin Sihite said in Jakarta on Friday that considering the number of victims, the government has the right to temporarily or permanently shut down the operation.

"The Freeport management has to get clearance from the government first if they want to continue production," he said, as quoted by kompas.com. "However, they will be allowed to maintain their facilities pending a final decision," he added.

Initially, a team from the ESDM was dispatched to Papua in the wake of the accident to review safety standarts at Freeport’s underground mine. Currently, another government team is investigating the incident assisted by the local police.

"We are still looking into the case. We haven't got any information about the shutting-down of Freeport production activities yet," National Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Agus Riyanto told The Jakarta Post. (fan)

ENDS

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