Kelantan opens 100 probes into illegal mining since 2024, 51 cases still under investigation

KOTA BHARU, Oct 29 — A total of 100 investigation papers have been opened over illegal mining activities in Kelantan following 104 integrated enforcement operations carried out from 2024 until September this year.

Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said 51 cases are still under investigation while the remaining 49 cases have been resolved.

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

“Based on the enforcement records from the State Land and Mines Office for the period from 2024 until September 2026, 51 cases are still under investigation, and the remaining 49 cases have been resolved,” he said.

Mohamed Fadzli was responding to a question from Nik Bahrum Nik Abdullah’s (PAS-Chempaka) on the state government’s action against illegal mining activities 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 have also been increased for repeat offenders as part of efforts to deter further violations.

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

Mohamed Fadzli said the State Land and Mines Office, together 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, regularly conducts integrated operations at illegal mining hotspots. — Bernama