The federal government has arrested no fewer than seven suspects allegedly involved in the illegal mining of gold in Yagba East LGA of Kogi State, as the nationwide onslaught against illegal mining is gathering momentum.
A statement by the Special Assistant to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, disclosed that the operation, which was carried out by the mining marshals in Iyeh Odogbe, Isanlu community of Yagba East LGA, involved dislodging illegal miners whose activities have prevented lawfully authorised miners with licenses covering four cadastral units from accessing the site for 16 years. Reports indicate that the nefarious activities have gone unhindered for over 20 years.
“The well-coordinated operation, led by Commander, Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, resulted in the arrest of seven (7) suspects heading different groups of illegal miners in the area.
“Following the successful operation, site workers were given 5 days to completely vacate the site as operations to effectively secure the area and ensure it is fully recovered for lawful mining activities will continue in earnest.
“It will be recalled that a similar operation was carried out recently by the mining marshals in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, leading to the arrest of eight (8) Chinese nationals and a Nigerian, suspected to be involved in illegal mining.
“The trial of the suspects commenced last week at the Federal High Court, Abuja division, and they were remanded in Kuje prisons until the adjourned date.
“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, under the leadership of Dr. Dele Alake is committed to fighting the menace of illegal mining headlong and bringing culprits to book.”
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