– To deploy satellite surveillance
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Federal Government has intensified its clampdown on illegal gold mining, sealing off a major site in Gwagwalada, Abuja, and announcing plans to introduce satellite surveillance technology to strengthen nationwide monitoring.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the decisive action followed fresh intelligence reports of unlawful mining activity in the area, warning that the government will not tolerate activities that endanger residents or damage the environment.
“I have directed the mining marshals to seal off an illegal gold mining site in Gwagwalada, following fresh intelligence of unlawful activity in the area. This action became necessary to protect residents and avert environmental dangers,” Alake said in a statement.
He disclosed that earlier this month, the mining marshals shut down a similar site in the District 2 Extension layout, where 16 suspects were arrested. According to him, the Ministry’s Mines Inspectorate has already inspected the Gwagwalada site and confirmed compliance with his directive.
“A comprehensive investigation is ongoing to identify the root causes and recommend preventive measures,” he added.
The minister noted that mining marshals, under the command of ACC John Attah Onoja, have placed both sites under 24-hour surveillance until the inquiry is completed.
He urged residents to steer clear of the sealed-off areas, stressing the dangers of unlawful mining.
“I strongly advise residents to avoid these locations. Illegal mining not only destroys the environment but also endangers lives,” Alake warned.
He further reaffirmed government’s commitment to eradicate illegal mining nationwide, disclosing that his ministry is fast-tracking the deployment of satellite surveillance technology to monitor mining operations across the country.
“We remain firm in our resolve to eradicate illegal mining nationwide. To strengthen enforcement, the Ministry is fast-tracking the deployment of satellite surveillance technology to monitor mining operations across the country,” he said.
