Kelantan opens 100 investigation papers into illegal mining

KOTA BHARU – A total of 100 investigation papers have been opened into illegal mining activities in Kelantan following 104 integrated enforcement operations conducted from 2024 to September 2026.

Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said 51 cases remained under investigation, while the other 49 had been resolved.

He said all cases were investigated under Section 158 of the Kelantan State Minerals Enactment 2001.

Mohamed Fadzli was responding to a question from Nik Bahrum Nik Abdullah (Pas-Chempaka) on the state government’s action against illegal mining during the state assembly sitting here today.

He said enforcement measures included seizing machinery and mining sites, destroying illegal gold-panning equipment, and arresting and prosecuting individuals involved in trespassing.

Fines and compound rates had also been increased for repeat offenders to deter further violations.

In addition, the state government was strengthening preventive measures by installing warning signs and using drones to conduct aerial surveillance in high-risk areas.

Mohamed Fadzli said the State Land and Mines Office regularly conducted integrated operations at illegal mining hotspots with enforcement agencies, including the police, General Operations Force, Federal Reserve Unit and Special Branch, as well as the State Forestry Department and the Department of Minerals and Geoscience. –BERNAMA