The Nigerian government has recently taken decisive action to shut down an illegal mining site situated in Gaube, Kuje area council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of its ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and revenue loss in the mining sector. The operation was carried out by the Mining Marshals under the leadership of Assistant Commandant John Onoja Attah, who meticulously executed the mission through intelligence gathering and surveillance.
Preliminary investigations into the matter have revealed that the suspects lacked documentation authorizing their mining activities on the site, which ultimately led to the displacement of a legitimate mining company with necessary permits for the same location due to the illegal miners’ activities and resistance.
Commander John Onoja Attah emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards the displacement of lawful miners and investors by illegal miners. The suspects have confessed to the offense of illegal mining and admitted to operating on the site for over a year.
Following their arrest, over 2,000 tons of lithium were found on the ground, underscoring the significant scale of the illegal operation. The Commander declared that the exact quantity of lithium mined during the operation could not be quantified due to the illegality of the mining operations.
The seized minerals and equipment on the site have been marked as exhibits for prosecution, while further investigations are underway to unravel the extent of the illegal activities and ensure accountability for those responsible. These actions by the Nigerian government serve as a clear message that illegal mining will not be tolerated, with swift retribution for those who engage in such activities.
The Nigerian government’s proactive stance in promoting responsible and lawful mining practices that benefit the country’s economy and contribute to sustainable development is commendable. The measures taken to address illegal mining activities and uphold the rule of law in the mining sector are crucial for safeguarding the interests of legitimate miners and investors while preventing revenue loss due to illegal activities.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government’s commitment to combating illegal activities in the mining sector through the shutdown of the illegal mining site and the arrest of the suspects is a significant step towards safeguarding the interests of legitimate miners, investors, and the country’s overall economic well-being. These efforts are pivotal in promoting responsible and lawful mining practices that will benefit the nation’s economy and contribute to sustainable development.