NSCDC destroys illegal mining site in Osun, arrests suspect

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Osun State Command, has destroyed an illegal mining site at Sambisa area, Kajola, in Atakumosa West Local Government Area of the state.

A statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, ASC Kehinde Adeleke, and made available to journalists in Osogbo on Saturday, said the operation, carried out on Friday, January 31, 2025, was led by the State Commandant, CC Igbalawole Sotiyo.

Speaking at the mining site, the Commandant said the illegal operation was discovered through intelligence gathering and surveillance.

According to Sotiyo, “This move is aimed at curbing the menace of illegal mining in Osun State.

“The suspects confessed to not having the necessary license or authorization to conduct operations in line with the law of the land.”

He warned that the NSCDC would continue to crack down on illegal mining activities in the state, emphasizing that it is the statutory responsibility of the NSCDC to protect the country’s solid mineral resources. He also urged those involved to desist from the act.

The Osun NSCDC boss disclosed that some of the mining tools found at the site were destroyed during the operation.

Items destroyed included draglines, pumping machines, and other equipment used for illegal mining activities.

“The suspect arrested during the operation will be charged to court. Although some of them fled the scene, abandoning their equipment, I assure members of the public that we will soon arrest them and ensure they face the consequences of their actions,” Sotiyo said.

The Commandant also urged members of the public to provide information about illegal mining activities in their communities to make the state safer and curb environmental degradation and economic sabotage.

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