WEST PAPUA: Freeport mine forced to close

Issue 

On February 22, the giant US-owned Freeport gold and copper mine in West Papua was forced to suspend operations following a demonstration by hundreds of people who live in the surrounding area. The demonstrators blocked the mine's access road after security officers attempted to stop locals from searching for small lumps of gold in discarded mine tailings. Many people earn a living by collecting small amounts of gold and copper from waste dumped by the mine. The following day, as the mine remained closed, West Papuan students attacked the Freeport offices in Jakarta and 13 people were arrested. Freeport pays the Indonesian military and private security guards to protect its mining operations.

From Green Left Weekly, March 1, 2006.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.


If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.