Crime

How Seven Suspected Illegal Miners were Arrested in Kogi

Published by Tope Fakinlede on September 7th, 2024.

How Seven Suspected Illegal Miners were Arrested in Kogi

In a recent operation, seven individuals suspected of illegal mining were apprehended in Jaguna, near the Iye/Odogbe communities in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State. The action was carried out by the Mining Marshals as part of a clearance effort.

According to a statement from Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the arrests occurred after the suspects ignored previous warnings to leave the site. Despite being ordered to vacate the area on July 15, 2024, the miners not only refused to comply but also brought in additional workers and armed guards to secure the site.

The Mining Marshals’ intervention was prompted by the illegal miners’ continued defiance and refusal to heed appeals from local traditional leaders. Their actions had prevented licensed operators from accessing the site for legitimate mining activities for over 16 years.

Following intelligence reports on the illegal operations, the Mining Marshals launched a decisive operation last week. They dismantled the armed resistance and successfully cleared the area.

John Attah Onoja, Commander of the Mining Marshals, reaffirmed the commitment of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, to eradicating illegal mining in Nigeria. He warned that anyone involved in such activities would face legal consequences. The Mining Marshals, under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, are dedicated to securing the mining environment and enhancing investor confidence in the sector.