– Alake vows to crackdown on illegal mining
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Federal Government has imposed a ban on mining activities in Shiroro, Niger State, following a brutal attack by bandits that claimed the lives of 12 miners.
Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, who condemned the attack, vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Alake emphasized that illegal mining will not be tolerated, and security forces are working to ensure that mines across the country are safe from bandits seeking to exploit mineral-rich areas through violence.
He said preliminary reports suggest that non-Nigerians are funding these illegal operations, and warned that those involved will face severe consequences, including prosecution for economic sabotage and waging war against Nigeria.
The Minister in a statement also urged embassies to monitor their nationals in the mining sector, as criminal activities threaten international relations.
“I assure Nigerians that security agencies are on the trail of the murderers of twelve miners shot in Unguwar Magro village, Niger State, and they will be apprehended soon.
“No mining will occur at the attack site until investigations are complete. Security agencies are committed to ensuring that mines across the country are safe from bandits seeking to exploit mineral-rich areas through violence.
“The Mining Marshals are working with intelligence units to turn this attack into a special case, tracking the suspected bandits infiltrating Shiroro from neighboring states. Those who invade villages and kill innocents for illegal mining will face severe consequences.
“Preliminary reports indicate that non-Nigerians are funding these operations. Anyone involved will be prosecuted for economic sabotage and waging war against Nigeria,” the Minister said.
