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Mining company accused of destroying Indigenous site

A mining company is under investigation after allegedly destroying an Indigenous archaeological site in the Kimberley.

The Department of Indigenous affairs is investigating a claim by the Nyikina Mangala people that Buru Energy has bulldozed an area containing rare tool-making artifacts.

The company is exploring for oil and gas in the Canning Basin, 100 kms east of Broome.

Traditional owner Wayne Bergmann told the ABC that the company knew that the site held cultural significance.

"The bulldozers have pushed up grinding stones, spear-making material, there's a whole complex of evidence showing Aboriginal occupation and history," he said.

"This is just outrageous, there can't be any misunderstanding.

"We've had an ongoing relationship with the company for ages, there was meant to be no ground disturbing work."

Buru Energy said there were no registered sites in the area where it was working but will co-operate with any investigation.

Image: The West.com

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