Law Enforcement of Illegal Tin Mining in Teluk Kelabat, Bangka Belitung Islands

Abstract

This research explores efforts to enforce the law against illegal tin mining in Teluk Kelabat, Bangka Belitung, utilizing a juridical-empirical method and a case study approach. Teluk Kelabat, officially designated as a zero-mining zone in the Coastal and Small Islands Zoning Plan (RZWP3K), has witnessed illegal mining activities by the local community since 2009, leading to social conflicts and significant environmental damage. The study identifies various events that occurred between 2014 and 2021, involving the government and local residents in law enforcement efforts. The government conducted raids and crackdowns to curb illegal mining, including the issuance of Regional Regulation No. 3 of 2020 designating Teluk Kelabat as a mining-free zone. However, the economic needs of the local population continue to drive ongoing illegal mining activities. Through an in-depth case study, this research highlights the challenges and obstacles in law enforcement, including community resistance to government initiatives. Here, the juridical-empirical method proves instrumental in understanding the legal aspects of the conflict, while the case study approach aids in detailing specific events. The research aims to optimize the mechanism of People's Mining Permit (IPR) by allowing mining in specific areas for a limited time and with stringent financial accountability mechanisms.