Mining Marshals dismantle illegal mining site in Nasarawa

…arrest foreign nationals

The Mining Marshals have successfully dismantled a heavily fortified illegal mining site located in Rafin Gabas, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, in a significant operation aimed at curbing illegal mining activities.

The operation, carried out through strategic coordination, led to the arrest of three foreign nationals involved in illegal mining operations. The site, which had long evaded law enforcement, was reportedly protected by compromised security personnel. Despite the arrests, several other suspects managed to escape, allegedly with the help of security operatives.

Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, commended the operation, calling it a major breakthrough in the government’s ongoing 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.

ACC John Attah Onoja, Commander of the Mining Marshals, confirmed that the illegal mining site had been sealed off following the raid.

“A manhunt is currently underway for the suspects who managed to escape, and investigations are ongoing to identify any security personnel who may have facilitated these illegal activities,” he said.

Onoja further disclosed that the company behind the illegal operations, along with several of the fleeing suspects, are facing pending criminal charges in the Federal High Court in Abuja.

This operation follows the one-year anniversary of the Mining Marshals, during which the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining. Dr. Alake announced plans to enhance the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals, including satellite monitoring of mining sites and the provision of state-of-the-art equipment.