The Niger State Ministry of Mineral Resources has disclosed that, in collaboration with security agencies, it effected the arrest of a total of 41 illegal miners as part of efforts to combat illegal mining activities across the state.
Those apprehended include 34 males and 7 females.
The operation, led by the Commissioner, Alhaji Garba Yahaya, on Friday, targeted known hotspots for unregulated mining activities, including the area behind the PDP Secretariat near El-Amin University and the Caterigwari Mechanic Village in Minna.
Items confiscated during the raid include pulping machines, hoses, shovels, and other crude mining tools.
Yahaya reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to ending illegal mining, which poses a significant threat of environmental degradation and land pollution.
He urged traditional leaders and landowners to refrain from selling land to unauthorized miners, warning that such actions encourage illegal activities that harm community well-being and the environment.
The Commissioner called for continued support by the people of the state in the fight against illegal mining, while emphasizing that collective action is necessary to cause lasting change.
He assured residents of the administration of Governor Umar Mohammed Bago’s commitment to creating a secure and economically vibrant state attractive to local and international investors.
Alhaji Yahaya reaffirmed that operations to flush out illegal miners will continue until the state is completely free from the menace.
“This government is determined to restore order, protect our environment, and ensure that the resources of Niger State benefit all its people,” he said.
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