More Than 1,000 in Aceh Protest Ban on Illegal Gold Mining

Zaini recently instructed the closing of traditional gold mining operations in Aceh, saying they have been responsible for the death of thousands of fish in the Tangse River in Pidie and the Teunom River in the neighboring district of Aceh Jaya.
Zaini said the deaths were caused by the irresponsible use of mercury in the process of gold extraction. Mercury also builds up in fish stocks and can be passed on to humans, causing severe illness and birth defects.
Aside from the Geumpang and Mane subdistricts, traditional gold mining can also be found in Gunung Ujeuen in the Aceh Jaya and South Aceh districts.
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/news/1000-aceh-protest-ban-illegal-gold-mining/