FCT mining site sealed as Alake moves against illegal gold operations
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has ordered the sealing of an illegal gold mining site in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to prevent environmental hazards and safeguard public safety.
This follows a prior operation on August 16, 2025, when mining marshals recovered and sealed another illegal mining site at District 2 Extension layout, Gwagwalada, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects, who are slated for prosecution.
Investigations revealed that artisanal miners invaded the area after discovering a gold vein while digging a soakaway pit near a residential property. The most recent illegal activity was detected on farmland behind CKC, Gwagwalada.
In response, Dr. Alake promptly deployed mining marshals to secure the site. Ministry officials, led by the Director of Mines Inspectorate and represented by Deputy Director Sunday Okhuoya, conducted an on-site assessment and confirmed compliance with the minister’s directive.
A full investigation has been launched to identify the root causes of the illegal mining activities and recommend measures to prevent recurrence, the officials said.
Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) John Attah Onoja, commander of the Mining Marshals, confirmed that his team has established 24-hour surveillance over both affected sites pending the outcome of the federal inquiry.
Dr. Alake urged residents to steer clear of the areas while enforcement and remediation efforts continue, stressing the potential environmental and public health risks associated with illegal mining.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to eradicating unauthorized mining activities nationwide, noting that satellite surveillance technology is being deployed to monitor mining operations and strengthen enforcement capacity.
