Samarinda, Sketsa.id – The East Kalimantan High Prosecutor’s Office (Kejati Kaltim) has officially detained the former Head of the Energy and Mineral Resources Agency (ESDM) of East Kalimantan, identified as AMR, on Monday, May 19, 2025.
AMR, who held the post from 2010 to 2018, is under investigation for his alleged involvement in a coal mine reclamation corruption case linked to CV Arjuna in Samarinda.
The company’s director, IEE, was also named a suspect and taken into custody earlier on May 15, 2025.
According to Kejati Kaltim’s Head of Public Information, Toni Yuswanto, both individuals were named suspects based on substantial preliminary evidence.
“They are suspected of orchestrating a fictitious reclamation process, which led to financial losses for the state,” Toni explained.
Investigations revealed that CV Arjuna, which holds a mining permit covering 1,452 hectares in the Sambutan area of Samarinda Ilir, failed to carry out proper post-mining land restoration.
Instead, the company reportedly misused reclamation guarantee funds, including the unauthorized withdrawal of guarantees and the use of an expired bond worth Rp2.4 billion. The environmental damage caused by the neglected reclamation is estimated to be around Rp58.5 billion.
Toni added that an official audit from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) is currently underway, with environmental experts also being involved to assess the full extent of the damage.
“Our team is committed to ensuring accountability and preventing further harm to the state and environment,” he emphasized.
The case has sparked public concern, especially in Samarinda, where abandoned coal mines have long been blamed for landslides and flooding. Many residents hope this legal action will serve as a warning to irresponsible mining operators.
AMR and IEE are currently in custody as the investigation continues. Kejati Kaltim has assured the public of a transparent and lawful process.
“We are determined to pursue justice and uphold environmental integrity,” Toni concluded. (*)
