The Federal Government of
Nigeria has initiated legal proceedings against suspected illegal miners apprehended during a recent crackdown in Kogi and Ondo states. This action is part of an ongoing effort to clean up the mining sector.
In a statement released on Monday, Segun Tomori, the Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, detailed the operation. The crackdown, dubbed ‘Operation Hayakin Kogo,’ led to the arrest of two Chinese nationals and a Nigerian in the Ikah community of Ankpa LGA, Kogi State. These individuals were found to be violating mining regulations.
Simultaneously, Mining Marshals targeted an illegal gold mining site in the Ogunlepa, Oluwa Forest Reserve, Odigbo LGA, Ondo State, arresting four suspects. During interrogation, the suspects admitted to lacking the necessary licenses for their activities.
The arrested suspects from both states have been charged to the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining. He highlighted plans to enhance the Mining Marshals’ operations with technology and satellite monitoring.
Alake urged those involved in illegal mining to comply with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (NNMA) and regularize their operations, emphasizing that the government’s resolve to combat illegal activities remains steadfast.
