KUCHING: The Gunung Tabai Cave in Bau will be sealed off from public access with immediate effect.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Aidi Ismail said he has ordered the district police to seal off the area after last Wednesday’s tragedy in which an illegal gold miner lost his life.
He said the action was taken in view of the dangers in the area as well as to prevent a recurrence of the unfortunate incident.
“I have already asked the Bau police chief (Bau District police chief DSP Poge Nyaon) to close the area so that people cannot enter it.
“Immediate action needs to be taken and the police will keep the area closed to the public,” he stressed.
Aidi said this when met by reporters after officiating at the 214th Police Day celebration parade held at the State Police Contingent Headquarters (IPK), here today (Mar 25).
He warned that the police would enforce the law and arrest those who trespass into the restricted area.
The police would also discuss with Bau District Office to resolve the matter thoroughly in an effort to prevent future recurrences.
In the incident which occurred on Wednesday, an attempt by three villagers to dig for gold at Gunung Tabai Cave near Kampung Bidi, Krokong ended with one of them dead – buried under a rockfall.
Commenting on the tragic incident, Aidi said the villagers should be aware that illegal mining activities in the cave area were dangerous.
“When nothing happens, people do not see the dangers there. I advise everyone to take care of their own safety and not to take the opportunity to do things that could endanger themselves,” he reminded.
