Morowali clash leads to evacuation of 75 foreign workers

Police have evacuated 75 foreign workers to the Central Sulawesi Regional Police headquarters following a violent clash between local residents and PT Astima Konstruksi (Askon) in Matarape Village, Morowali Regency.

The conflict erupted on Friday, October 2, after residents protested environmental impacts caused by company activities, specifically citing dust pollution from material transportation near residential areas. The unrest resulted in six injuries from sharp weapons, including five local residents and one foreign national.

During the riot, protesters damaged five company operational vehicles and burned five excavators. Authorities have deployed joint personnel from the Morowali and North Konawe Police, as well as Brimob units, to monitor the situation and prevent further violence. The 75 foreign workers are currently undergoing investigation and immigration data verification as witnesses.