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Three Arrested As FG Clamp Down On Illegal Mining Site In FCT
The federal government’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and revenue loss in the mining sector have led to the sealing of an illegal mining site at Gaube, Kuje area council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Nation Post understands that three suspects have been arrested in connection with this operation.
The Ministry of Solid Mineral Development has stated that this successful operation was made possible through meticulous intelligence gathering and surveillance conducted by the Mining Marshals, led by Assistant Commandant John Onoja Attah.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects did not possess any documentation authorizing their mining activities on the site.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted that a legitimate mining company, which had the necessary permits for the same location, was unable to access the site due to the activities and resistance of the illegal miners.
The Commander of the Mining Marshals emphasized that this situation of illegal miners displacing lawful miners and investors will not be tolerated.
The suspects have voluntarily confessed to the offence of illegal mining, admitting to operating on the site for over a year.
The statement released on Thursday, May 30, also revealed that at the time of their arrest, over 2,000 tons of lithium were found on the ground, underscoring the magnitude of the illegal operation.
“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 Commander added.
He stated that the minerals and equipment confiscated at the location have been designated as evidence for legal action, with ongoing inquiries to determine the full scope of the illicit operations.
“The Commander of the Mining Marshals emphasized that this crackdown is part of a broader effort to combat revenue loss in the mining sector of Nigeria.
“The success of this operation is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR.
“The operation, code-named “OPERATION HAYAKIN KOGO,” aims to rid the mining sector of illegal activities and promote a more secure and 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,” the statement concluded.
