Gorontalo mining regulation and licensing disputes

Authorities in Gorontalo have emphasized the necessity of adhering to legal regulations regarding mining activities. Governor Gusnar Ismail stated that the authority to issue Mining Business Licenses (IUP) rests with the central government, meaning the provincial government cannot intervene in the licensing process. In response to public concerns, the Governor requested an inventory of community grievances, specifically regarding the activities of PT Celebes Bone Mineral and PT Bumi Nusantara Perkasa Gorontalo (BNPG) in Bone Bolango Regency.

Simultaneously, the Gorontalo Regional Police urged illegal gold miners to transition to legal operations by obtaining People's Mining Permits (IPR) to ensure accountability and environmental preservation.

Following allegations that the Governor had promised to close local mining companies, the provincial government clarified that the Governor lacks the legal authority to unilaterally revoke mineral metal mining business licenses. Officials noted that under current laws, the authority for managing and revoking such permits has shifted to the Central Government. To resolve the issue, the provincial government intends to propose permit revocations through the proper administrative hierarchy, starting from the Regent level and moving up to the relevant central ministry.