Dozens of Chinese Nationals Involved in Attack on Indonesian Soldiers and Civilians at Ketapang Gold Mine

Indonesia, El Sky News — A serious incident occurred at PT Sultan Rafli Mandiri (SRM) gold mining site in Tumbang Titi District, Ketapang Regency, West Kalimantan, on Sunday afternoon, December 14, 2025, involving several Chinese nationals in an altercation with Indonesian military personnel (TNI) and local residents. The event ended with the Immigration Office of Ketapang detaining dozens of foreign nationals for further investigation.

Incident at the Mining Site

The incident began when unauthorized drones were detected operating in the mining area, which is also a military training and company operational zone. TNI personnel inspecting the drone reportedly encountered four Chinese nationals who were allegedly operating the device.

Suddenly, dozens of additional Chinese nationals reportedly arrived and allegedly carried sharp weapons, airsoft guns, and stun devices, physically attacking five TNI soldiers and one security officer at the site. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but property and vehicles were damaged during the confrontation.

Immigration Authorities Step In

In response to the violence, security personnel, together with Ketapang Immigration Office, intervened. Currently, 34 Chinese nationals have been detained at the Immigration Office for administrative checks and verification of their immigration status.

Ida Bagus Putu Widia Kusuma, Head of Information and Communication Section at Ketapang Immigration, confirmed that all detained individuals are undergoing verification of their residency permits (KITAS) and other legal documents.

Military and Company Statements

According to the TNI, the clash escalated when military personnel approached the drone operating in a sensitive training and mining zone. The sudden involvement of additional Chinese nationals allegedly attacking TNI personnel intensified the situation.

PT SRM representatives stated that their staff, some of whom are Chinese nationals, were performing routine technical duties. The company denied any direct involvement in the confrontation and reported damage to company assets to West Kalimantan Police.

Ongoing Legal Process

Immigration authorities are focusing on verifying the detainees’ legal status and work permits. Meanwhile, local police are handling criminal investigation regarding assault on state officials and property damage, ensuring legal procedures are followed under Indonesian law.

The incident highlights security concerns involing foreign nationals in sensitive zones of Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of immigration control and law enforcement. The ongoing investigations demonstrate the authorities’ commitment to handling the situation transparently and professionally.

(Lunar)