Jepara authorities find four illegal mines in protected food crop areas

Authorities in Jepara have identified four illegal mining sites in Tunggulpandean Village, Nalumsari District, that are operating within protected food crop areas. An inspection by the Integrated Team for Non-Metallic Mineral and Rock Mining (MBLB) on September 24, 2026, confirmed that these sites lack the necessary permits and are located on Protected Paddy Land (LSD).

The sites involve various operators, with one location expanding from 5,000 to 10,000 square meters despite a previous government order to cease activities in June 2026. Other locations identified include sites managed by individuals with initials K, S, R, and L, covering areas between 4,000 and 5,000 square meters. While active excavation was not observed during the inspection, heavy machinery, including excavators and a borehole, remained on-site.

Diana Kristina, Head of the Kendeng Muria ESDM Branch Office, stated that mining permits cannot be issued for these locations because they are designated as protected food crop and paddy land.