The Federal Government’s efforts to curb illegal mining resulted in the apprehension of three suspects and the closure of their illegal mining site in Gaube, Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in a recent operation. The Explainer learnt that the arrests were made by the newly inaugurated Mining Marshals, led by Assistant Commandant John Onoja Attah, as part of “OPERATION HAYAKIN KOGO.”
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects lacked the necessary documentation authorizing their mining activities on the site. Additionally, it was discovered that a legitimate mining company with proper permits for the location was unable to access the site due to the activities and resistance of the illegal miners.
“This is a clear case of illegal miners displacing lawful miners and investors, which will not be tolerated,” according to the Commander of the Mining Marshals.
Following their arrest, the suspects voluntarily confessed to engaging in illegal mining activities on the site for over a year.
At the time of apprehension, authorities discovered over 2,000 tons of lithium on the ground, underscoring the magnitude of the illicit operation.
According to Attah, “Whereas, we met about 2000 tons of lithium on the ground, the quantity of lithium mined since commencement of operation can’t be quantified as they were not being recorded due to the illegality of their mining operations.”
The seized minerals and equipment on site have been marked as exhibits for prosecution, and further investigations are ongoing to uncover the extent of the illegal activities.
While acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for the success of the operation, he highlighted that the crackdown on illegal mining was a vital component of the government’s strategy to address revenue losses in the mining sector.
He emphasized that the operation aims to purge the mining sector of illegal activities, fostering a safer and more prosperous industry.
“This operation sends a strong message to illegal miners and investors that the federal government will no longer tolerate illegal activities that undermine the growth and development of the mining sector,” Attah maintained.
