The Federal Government has intensified its efforts to battle illegal mining activities with a recent clearance exercise carried out by the Mining Marshals in Jaguna, off Iye/Odogbe communities in Yagba East Local Government Area, Kogi State.
It will be recalled that on 15th July 2024, Jaguna, an area surrounded by forest, was raided by the Mining Marshals, resulting in the arrest of seven suspected illegal gold miners. Labourers on-site were given a directive to vacate the area within five days.
The follow-up action was necessary after the illegal miners also ignored appeals from community traditional rulers to vacate the site. This was to allow the licensed mineral titleholders unhindered access to the area for legitimate operations.
For over 16 years, the rightful mining license holders have been unable to access the location due to the activities of armed illegal miners.
MUST READ: Paralympics 2024: Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo Wins Gold On Final Day
Acting on intelligence reports suggesting that the illegal operators had remained defiant, the Mining Marshals, last week, stormed the site, neutralized the resistant armed gangs, and successfully cleared the area.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC John Attah Onoja, reiterated the commitment of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, to eradicating illegal mining in the country. He issued a stern warning to all involved in illegal mining activities, regardless of their status, to desist or face the full wrath of the law.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
