The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities in Kogi and Ondo states, leading to the prosecution of several suspects as part of broader efforts to reform the mining sector.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Segun Tomori on Monday, during a recent operation named “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” conducted by the Mining Marshals in the Ikah Community of Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State, according to The Punch.
According to the statement, “In a related development, the Mining Marshals also raided an illegal gold mining site in the Ogunlepa, Oluwa Forest Reserve, Odigbo LGA of Ondo State, where four suspects were arrested.
“The suspects from both Kogi and Ondo states have since been charged to the Federal High Court, Abuja.”
Alake reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining through strengthened operations of the Mining Marshals, which will include the use of advanced technology and the forthcoming implementation of satellite monitoring of mining sites.
He urged those still involved in illegal activities to “turn a new leaf and comply with the relevant sections of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act to regularise their operations,” warning that the Federal Government’s resolve to enforce the law is unwavering.
Tomori emphasized that the recent actions are only the start of a wider crackdown on illegal mining nationwide.
