In a decisive move against illegal mining, Mining Marshals have successfully dismantled a heavily fortified illegal mining site in Rafin Gabas, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The operation marks a significant victory in the government’s ongoing efforts to curb illicit mining activities across the country.
The site, which had long evaded law enforcement, was reportedly protected by compromised security personnel. However, a strategic and well-coordinated raid enabled the Mining Marshals to penetrate the stronghold, leading to the arrest of three foreign nationals involved in the illicit activities. Several other suspects managed to escape, allegedly with the assistance of security operatives.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, praised the operation, describing it as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining. “This is a crucial milestone in our tireless efforts to sanitize the mining sector. We are committed to cracking down on illegal mining operations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable,” Alake stated.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC John Attah Onoja, confirmed that the site has been sealed off following the raid. “A manhunt is currently underway for the suspects who escaped, and investigations are ongoing to identify any security personnel involved in facilitating these illegal activities,” he added.
Onoja further disclosed that the company behind the illegal operations, along with some of the suspects on the run, have pending criminal charges in the Federal High Court, Abuja.
This development comes amid heightened government efforts to eradicate illegal mining. During the one-year anniversary of the Mining Marshals, Dr. Alake reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to tackling the menace. He announced plans to enhance the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals through satellite monitoring of mining sites and the provision of state-of-the-art equipment to bolster enforcement efforts.
