In a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining, the Mining Marshals have successfully dismantled a heavily fortified illegal mining site in Rafin Gabas, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The site, which had long evaded law enforcement, was reportedly protected by compromised security personnel.
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The Mining Marshals, led by Commander John Attah Onoja, conducted a strategic and well-coordinated operation that led to the arrest of three foreign nationals involved in the illegal mining activities. Several other suspects managed to flee, allegedly with the help of security operatives.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in a statement signed by his SA Media, Mr Segun Tomori commended the operation, stating that it’s a crucial milestone in the government’s efforts to sanitize the mining sector.
“We are committed to cracking down on illegal mining operations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable,” Alake said.
The site has been sealed off, and a manhunt is underway for the suspects who escaped. Investigations are also ongoing to identify any security personnel involved in facilitating the illegal activities.
The company behind the illegal operations, along with some of the suspects on the run, have pending criminal charges in the Federal High Court, Abuja.
This operation marks a significant step towards curbing illegal mining in Nigeria, and the government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating the practice.
Plans are underway to enhance the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals through satellite monitoring of mining sites and the provision of state-of-the-art equipment.
*FALSE CLAIMS OF ILLEGAL MINING – A CALL FOR CLARITY AND RESPECT FOR THE RULE OF LAW*
I John, wish to categorically refute the false and misleading claims being circulated regarding the operations of licensed miners. These baseless allegations are not only deceptive but appear to be a deliberate attempt to discredit legitimate business activities duly recognized by law.
I challenge the Mining Marshal Commander, Mr. John Onoja, to publicly present verifiable evidence supporting his claims. If he believes these operators are indeed illegal miners, let him come forward and prove it through proper legal channels rather than media propaganda.
I remind all concerned that mining operations in Nigeria are governed by the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, which clearly provides in Section 8 that:
No person shall explore for or exploit mineral resources in Nigeria without being duly licensed by the Mining Cadastre Office. All operations in question are conducted under valid licenses issued by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Mining Cadastre Office. To question their legitimacy is to indirectly challenge the credibility of the nation’s regulatory framework and legal instruments.
I urge the public and the press to disregard these false claims. The truth will soon come to light, and it will vindicate those who operate within the bounds of the law. Let us remain steadfast in upholding the principles of transparency, due process, and respect for lawful authority.