Manokwari, W Papua, July 23 -- West Papua police have intensified their crackdown on illegal gold mining operations, arresting 31 suspects between January and July this year in the districts of Manokwari and Pegunungan Arfak.

The raids also resulted in the seizure of approximately 156.05 grams of fine gold particles, West Papua Police's Criminal Investigation Director, Senior Commissioner Sonny Tampubolon told journalists here, Tuesday.

In addition to the gold, police confiscated three excavators, four diesel generators, and various other mining equipment. Tampubolon stated that some of the arrested individuals are currently facing trial.

"We have submitted the suspects' case files to the West Papua Prosecutor's Office. Several are alr...