PT Peter Metal Technology Causes Radioactive Cesium-137 Contamination in Cikande, Banten
Wednesday, October 15, 2025 | 21:15 WIB — Jakarta, Beritasatu.com
The Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) of Indonesia has confirmed that the radioactive contamination incident involving Cesium-137 (Cs-137) in the industrial area of Cikande, Kabupaten Serang, Banten, was caused by negligence from PT Peter Metal Technology (PMT).
Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, Minister of Environment and Forestry who also serves as the Head of the Environmental Management Agency (BPLH), stated that the investigation traced the contaminated scrap materials directly back to PT PMT’s improper storage practices. “The status of the case has been elevated to formal investigation. The evidence shows all contaminated scrap originated from PT PMT, which carelessly stored materials, unaware that Cesium was present. This clearly reflects negligence,” Hanif said during a press statement in Jakarta on Wednesday, October 15. ### Investigation and Decontamination Efforts Underway
Hanif, also the Chairperson of the Cs-137 Radionuclide Radiation Handling Task Force, indicated that the case is now under official legal inquiry. Comprehensive decontamination has already been completed in 22 factories within the Cikande industrial zone, with cleaning operations still ongoing at an additional 10 sites.
“All contaminated areas are guaranteed to be cleaned thoroughly until they are safe,” Hanif emphasized, reassuring the public about the government’s commitment to address the hazardous situation.
Temporary Relocation for Residents in High-Risk Zones
In addition to industrial cleanup, the government is preparing a temporary relocation plan for residents living near the core radiation exposure zone, particularly those near PT PMT’s factory. The relocation is coordinated with local governments to protect the health and safety of the affected communities.
“We will move residents temporarily while the cleanup is ongoing. We hope the process will be completed within a month so that residents can safely return to their homes,” said Hanif.
Target Completion by End of 2025
The task force has set a goal to finish the decontamination process throughout all affected areas — including industrial facilities, factories, and residential neighborhoods — by December 2025. This cleanup involves systematic steps across ten major sites identified with elevated radiation levels, ensuring adherence to strict safety protocols aligned with international environmental standards.
“We want to ensure the environment is completely safe and under control before declaring the area free from contamination,” Hanif concluded.
Background on Cesium-137 Contamination
Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope often produced during nuclear fission processes. Exposure to Cs-137 can cause serious health risks including radiation sickness, increased cancer risk, and environmental damage. The incident in Cikande has raised concerns due to its proximity to residential and industrial areas.
Government and Community Response
Authorities continue to monitor radiation levels rigorously. The Ministry of Social Affairs has promised to provide support and meet basic needs for displaced residents. Meanwhile, some local residents have opted to remain in their homes despite proximity to the contamination zone, highlighting the need for further community engagement.
Related Developments
- The Environment Ministry’s announcement marks a significant step toward accountability and remediation in this high-profile environmental case.
- Police are expected to soon name suspects linked to the radiological contamination incident.
- Local and national agencies are collaborating to prevent future occurrences and enhance radiation safety protocols.
For ongoing updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Beritasatu.com and follow our official social media channels.
Tags: Cesium-137, Radioactive Contamination, PT Peter Metal Technology, Cikande, Banten, Environmental Cleanup, Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Radiation Safety, Resident Relocation, Industrial Accident
