Security operatives have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining activities in Nigeria, arresting seven suspects allegedly involved in the unlawful extraction of gold in the Iyeh Odogbe, Isanlu community of Yagba East Local Government Area (LGA) in Kogi State. This arrest was confirmed in a statement released on Friday by Segun Tomori, the media aide to Dele Alake, the Minister of Mines and Solid Minerals.
According to Tomori, the operation that led to the arrest of the suspects was meticulously planned and executed by the mining marshals, a special unit tasked with combating illegal mining. The marshals successfully dislodged a group of illegal miners who had been operating in the area for over two decades. These illegal activities had not only been ongoing for 20 years but had also prevented legitimate miners with official licenses covering four cadastral units from accessing the site for the past 16 years.
Tomori stated, “The well-coordinated operation, led by Commander, Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, resulted in the arrest of seven (7) suspects heading different groups of illegal miners in the area.” He further elaborated that the illegal mining activities in this region had been a significant hindrance to the lawful extraction of minerals, severely impacting the community and the nation’s economy.
Following the successful operation, the site workers were given a five-day ultimatum to vacate the premises. This directive was part of a broader strategy to secure the area and ensure it is fully recovered for lawful mining activities. The statement emphasized that the operations to safeguard the site and restore it to its rightful state for legitimate mining would continue in earnest.
This recent crackdown in Kogi State follows a similar operation in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, where the mining marshals arrested eight Chinese nationals and one Nigerian for their involvement in illegal mining activities. The suspects in that operation are currently undergoing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja. They have been remanded in Kuje prisons until the next court hearing.
The consistent efforts by the mining marshals and other security operatives underscore the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining in the country. The Minister of Mines and Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has reiterated the government’s resolve to clamp down on illegal mining operations, which not only deplete the nation’s mineral resources but also cause environmental degradation and loss of revenue.
Illegal mining has been a persistent problem in Nigeria, contributing to environmental hazards, loss of life, and significant economic losses. The activities of these illegal miners often go unchecked due to inadequate enforcement of mining laws and regulations. The recent arrests and ongoing operations are part of a concerted effort to address this issue and restore order in the mining sector.
The community in Yagba East LGA has been particularly affected by these illegal activities. Legitimate miners, who have been unable to access their licensed areas for years, have welcomed the intervention of the mining marshals. They hope that the recovery of the site will pave the way for lawful mining activities, which will, in turn, boost local and national economies.
In conclusion, the recent arrest of illegal miners in Kogi State represents a significant step forward in the battle against illegal mining in Nigeria. The government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing mining laws and regulations is crucial in ensuring that the nation’s mineral resources are protected and utilized for the benefit of its people. As the trial of the suspects proceeds, it is hoped that justice will be served, and a strong message will be sent to all those involved in illegal mining activities. The continuous efforts to secure mining sites and support lawful mining operations are essential for the sustainable development of Nigeria’s mining sector.
