The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps Mining Marshals have praised the Nigerian Army for its decisive action in combating illegal mining activities following the handover of 18 suspected unlicensed miners apprehended in Niger State. The suspects were arrested during a routine military operation in Izom, Gurara Local Government Area, marking another significant breakthrough in efforts to protect the nation’s mineral wealth.
Following elished inter-agency collaboration protocols, the Nigerian Army transferred the suspects along with seized exhibits to the NSCDC Mining Marshals Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, for comprehensive investigation and potential prosecution. The Commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah, described the military’s intervention as exemplary, unprecedented and deeply patriotic, emphasizing that it demonstrates unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s valuable mineral resources.
Preliminary investigations conducted by the Mining Marshals revealed that all suspects allegedly operated without proper licences, permits or any affiliation with registered mining companies. Several items believed to have been used in the illegal mining operation were recovered from the site, including motorcycles, pumping machines, crusher engines, communication devices and cash totaling N2,468,750.
The successful operation underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling the persistent challenge of illegal mining across Nigeria. As authorities continue to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, stakeholders anticipate more coordinated efforts to sanitize the mining sector and ensure sustainable exploitation of the country’s solid mineral resources for national development.
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