Following the ban on illegal mining in the state, the Niger State Ministry for Minerals Resources has reported the apprehension of over 30 illegal miners at various locations.
Addressing the recent incident at an illegal mining site in Minna, where there were allegations of a fatal confrontation between rebellious youth factions, the Ministry clarified that no such fatality occurred.
Garba Yahaya Sabo, the state’s Commissioner for Minerals Resources, disclosed that the arrests took place from January onwards at multiple mining sites within the state.
He emphasized that the Ministry has been tasked with safeguarding, detaining, and halting all unauthorized mining operations, stressing that individuals interested in mining must officially register with the state government to stimulate job opportunities and enhance revenue generation.
Expressing concerns over the insufficient workforce for effectively monitoring the activities of illegal miners at mining sites, Sabo announced plans to deploy designated officers to oversee mining areas across the 25 local government areas, ensuring the Ministry remains informed of sector developments.
Regarding the potential security risks posed by these illegal miners, he stated, “Many of these unauthorized miners are involved in criminal activities that could endanger the populace of the state.”
He further added, “After being expelled from the mining sites during the day, these illegal miners often regroup at night under the guise of gold mining and engage in various criminal acts within the state.”
Dismissing claims of a fatality at the Maitumbi illegal mining site near the Julius Berger Quarry site, the commissioner clarified, “The alleged incident did not take place at the illegal mining site but occurred nearby at night. There were no casualties during the youth clash on Friday at that location.”
About the purported misinformation linking the incident to mining activities, he remarked, “The entire report is false, malicious, and has no connection to mining operations. It was evidently intended to defame the Ministry.”