Jakarta – Three individuals have been named as suspects by the Bangka Belitung Islands Regional Police following a deadly landslide at a former tin mine that claimed the lives of seven workers on february 2, 2026. It’s a grim reminder of the risks lurking beneath the surface of Indonesia’s lucrative, yet frequently enough unregulated, tin mining industry.
A police investigation has identified three men as suspects in the deaths of seven tin miners.
- Kimkhian (also known as Akhian), Suhendri (also known as Aciu), and Sarpuji Sayuti have been identified as suspects.
- The suspects are accused of both causing deaths through mining activities and conducting unauthorized mining.
- Police are expanding the investigation to include PT Timah, a major tin producer.
- The search continues for one missing miner from Koba, Central Bangka Regency.
Chief of the Bangka Belitung Islands Regional Police, Inspector General Viktor Theodorus Sihombing, announced the suspects’ identities on Friday, February 6, 2026. “They were the owners and founders of the tin mining activities as well as tin collectors,” Sihombing stated. The landslide occurred at the former Pondi tin mine in Pemali Village, Pemali District, Bangka Regency.
What caused the landslide at the tin mine? The incident stemmed from mining operations at the former Pondi tin mine, where unstable ground gave way, burying seven workers.Investigators have reviewed statements from 16 witnesses, all of whom were present at the site during the collapse.
The three men face charges related to the deaths caused by the mining operation and for conducting mining activities without proper authorization. Sihombing assured the public that the investigation will not stop with these three individuals. “This includes summoning PT Timah for questioning,” he said, signaling a broader probe into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Authorities have seized an excavator, 275 kilograms of wet tin sand, relevant documents, and other mining equipment as evidence. Investigators believe two additional pieces of heavy machinery remain buried beneath the landslide debris. “Based on the witness statements, these heavy equipment were rented. The owners will also be summoned,” Sihombing added. A police perimeter has been established around the mining site, prohibiting any further activity.
The search for a missing miner from Koba, Central Bangka Regency, remains ongoing, with a joint search and rescue team continuing their efforts. Six of the seven victims have been returned to their hometown in Pandeglang,Banten,for burial. Sihombing confirmed that authorities will collaborate with prosecutors and seek expert testimony to build a strong case.
The incident underscores the dangers associated with unregulated tin mining, a meaningful industry in the Bangka Belitung Islands. The investigation is expected to shed light on safety protocols and oversight within the sector.
