FG vows action on illegal mining after Zamfara tragedy kills 13

The Federal Government has pledged stiffer action against illegal mining following the death of 13 people in a mine pit collapse in Kadauri village, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The incident, which occurred after heavy rainfall, trapped at least 15 miners, with two still unaccounted for. Officials said the collapse was worsened by unsafe mining practices carried out by illegal operators.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described the disaster as both avoidable and unfortunate. He said federal mine officers were immediately deployed to lead rescue efforts alongside state authorities, adding that the site would be sealed off after the operation.

“I received with deep shock the report of the unfortunate incident in Zamfara which has unfortunately resulted in some casualties. Our first responders have been mobilized to the site and are working with officials of the state government on rescue operations,” Alake said in a recent statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori.

Preliminary findings revealed that the area contains loose sand and gold traces, conditions that attracted illegal miners who employed itinerant workers using rudimentary tools while ignoring environmental and safety risks.

Alake noted that the Federal Government has already intensified its crackdown on illegal mining through the mining marshals, who have arrested over 300 offenders across 10 states and the FCT, while 98 illegal mining sites have been sealed. He added that their operations would be expanded with more manpower and logistics.

He further explained that Zamfara poses a unique challenge because of its history of banditry, but military clearance operations have improved security in the region, enabling the government to lift the ban on exploration mining in December 2024.

The minister also revealed that the ministry has begun installing satellite surveillance systems to provide real-time monitoring of mining sites nationwide. He reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy on illegal mining, warning perpetrators to desist or face the full weight of the law.