In a decisive operation against illegal mining, the Niger State Ministry of Mineral Resources, in collaboration with the Niger State Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Forest Hunters Association, has arrested 33 individuals allegedly engaged in unauthorized mining activities.
The operation took place at a mining site in Gbakuchi-Kontongba, Paikoro Local Government Area.
Leading the crackdown, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Yunusa Nahauni, disclosed that working tools, including a water pumping machine, were confiscated during the raid.
The exercise forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and enforce regulations across the state.
Nahauni urged residents to report illicit mining activities, lamenting the failure of local leaders to expose the unauthorized operations. He also expressed suspicion over miners found sleeping at odd hours, hinting at possible nocturnal mining activities.
“The state government maintains a zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining,” Nahauni affirmed, referencing Governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s directive suspending all unauthorized mining due to security concerns. “We are committed to sanitizing the mining sector and will not relent in identifying those using it as a cover for unlawful activities.”
He assured that the arrested individuals would be prosecuted within 24 hours and that surveillance efforts would be intensified to curb further illegal activities.
Additionally, Nahauni raised concerns over undocumented foreign miners and called on the Nigeria Immigration Service to enhance border monitoring and enforcement.
The crackdown comes amid reports that the illegal mining site had been operational for over a decade, with miners allegedly working without proper authorization under a title owned by another company.
Commending the Commissioner of the Ministry, Alhaji Garba Sabo Yahaya, and his team for their dedication, Nahauni reiterated the state government’s resolve to protect its mineral resources and maintain law and order in the mining sector.