Indonesia Update

Richard Ness, President Director of Newmont Minahasa Raya (NMR), was in news today as the accused in Newmont’s pollution case in Teluk Buyat, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. The state attorney, Purwantha SH, found clear and convincing evidence that the accused has polluted the environment in Teluk Buyat (Buyat Bay) in violation of many laws.

In NMR’s operation, between 1996-2004, they have dumped at least 33 tons of mercury, 17 ton of other polluting gases, and possibly other pollutants as well.

A lot of people suffered because of these. Especially babies and children.

Unfortunately, the state attorney only asked the punishment to be a fine of Rp 500 million (about US$ 50,000), and less than 3 years imprisonment. The actual decision may very much lower than this, so it’s important to set it as high as possible. But with these, a criminal may walk away free and only with a light fine.

The lawsuit continues…

Reference: Republika newspaper, page 5, 11 November 2006

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