By Fatima Saka
The nationwide campaign by the federal government against unauthorized mining has gained traction with the apprehension of multiple individuals allegedly engaged in the illicit extraction of gold in Yagba East LGA, Kogi State.
The operation, executed by the mining marshals in Iyeh Odogbe, Isanlu community of Yagba East LGA, entailed the removal of unlawful miners whose actions have obstructed duly authorized miners with licenses encompassing four cadastral units from accessing the location for 16 years. Reports suggest that these illicit activities have persisted unchecked for over two decades.
The meticulously coordinated operation, spearheaded by Commander, Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, led to the arrest of seven (7) suspects overseeing distinct groups of illicit miners in the vicinity.
Subsequent to the successful operation, laborers at the site were instructed to vacate the premises within 5 days, as efforts to adequately secure the area and restore it entirely for lawful mining endeavors will be diligently pursued.
It is noteworthy that a similar operation was recently conducted by the mining marshals in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, resulting in the apprehension of eight (8) Chinese nationals and a Nigerian, suspected of engaging in unauthorized mining.
The trial of the suspects commenced last week at the Federal High Court, Abuja division, where they were remanded in Kuje prisons until the adjourned date.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, under the stewardship of Dr. Dele Alake, remains resolute in combating the scourge of illicit mining decisively and holding perpetrators accountable.
