22 foreign nationals caught in Bougainville mining crackdown
22 foreign nationals have been taken to Buka for further processing following an enforcement operation targeting unauthorised mining activities in Kopani, Asikopan-Torau Constituency, Central Bougainville.
The Autonomous Bougainville Government, in a statement released on Sunday, said the operation was carried out in the early hours of Sunday 23 August 2026 by the Bougainville Police Service and the Department of Mining and Petroleum, in collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies.
The 22 foreign nationals were removed from Kopani and transported to Buka for further processing by the relevant authorities.
Enforcement officers also seized and impounded machinery, which included excavators, a backhoe, large trucks, a mining wash pant, a land cruiser and other mining machinery and equipment.
The ABG says the equipment is being secured pending completion of the legal processes.
President and Minister for Mining and Petroleum, Ishmael Toroama, says the Government has spent the past three years conducting awareness on unauthorised mining and the requirements of Bougainville's mining laws.
“For the past three years, the ABG has undertaken extensive awareness with landowners, miners, communities and other stakeholders across Bougainville on unauthorised mining activities and the requirements of our mining laws.
''By now, our people and stakeholders should know and understand the law. The period of awareness has been sufficient; it is now time for enforcement of Bougainville's laws.”
President Toroama says enforcement will apply equally to foreign nationals and Bougainvilleans involved in unlawful mining activities.
“Our laws exist to protect the interests of Bougainville and its people. No individual, company or foreign national is above the law.
''The Government will continue its investigations, and appropriate legal action will also be taken against local individuals found to have facilitated, supported, or participated in unauthorised mining activities.
''If you wish to participate in Bougainville's mining sector, you must do so legally and in accordance with the laws of Bougainville” President Toroama said.
The ABG says equipment seized during the operation could be forfeited under the mining laws. Anyone claiming ownership of the equipment can apply to the court within 30 days to have it returned.
The Government has thanked police, immigration and Department of Mining and Petroleum officers, as well as those who provided logistical support during the operation.
The ABG says it will continue to conduct enforcement operations as needed to protect Bougainville's mineral resources and ensure mining activities are carried out legally and responsibly.