The federal government’s campaign against illegal mining has recorded some progress after it impounded 10 trucks and charged suspects to court for illegal possession and movement of minerals.
LEADERSHIP learnt that Mining Marshals drafted from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arrested 10 suspects along the Itobe-Ajokuta Road in Kogi State.
The suspects were found to be in possession of minerals without the requisite letter of identification, in violation of the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and Mining Regulations, 2011.
Investigations revealed that the suspects reportedly purchased the minerals from illegal miners in Kogi State, without evidence of legal mining titles, records, or payment of royalties. Some companies were also found to have illegally engaged third-party agents to purchase minerals from a community in Ankpa LGA of Kogi State.
A source revealed that the suspects have been charged to court while the directors of the companies involved have been invited for questioning.
The commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, told journalists that the paramilitary unit would continue its operation in full-scale to achieve full compliance with extant laws and regulations guiding the mining sector in Nigeria.
He called on stakeholders to support the efforts of the Minister of Solid Minerals to sanitise the Nigerian mining sector.
LEADERSHIP reports that the crackdown was part of the minister’s seven-point agenda towards sanitising the mining sector.
This development marks a significant step towards restoring sanity in the nation’s mining sector and ensuring that mineral resources are exploited in accordance with the law.