Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced that mining marshals have located 457 illegal mining sites in the past year. He made this statement during the first anniversary of the mining marshals in Abuja, emphasising their success in recovering over 98 sites, allowing licensed operators to resume their activities. This recovery is expected to enhance royalties and boost the contribution of solid minerals to Nigeria’s economy.

The minister reported that the marshals have improved intelligence gathering and raised awareness of the government’s enforcement capabilities, establishing a significant deterrent against illegal mining activities. Over the past year, the mining marshals arrested 327 individuals involved in illegal operations, with ongoing court prosecutions nationwide.

Alake explained that illegal miners had occupied licensed mining areas for many years, putting legitimate license holders at risk. He tasked the mining marshals with rectifying these situations to restore access to legally licensed sites. Notable operations included removing over 3,000 illegal miners from a site in Kogi State, facilitating the return of rights to the genuine license owners.

The success of the mining marshals has extended to various locations, including Kuje, Abia State, and Ankpa, where they have effectively restored mining sites to their proper owners. New recruits receive ongoing training to enhance the marshals’ operational effectiveness, employing technology like drones for better surveillance and communication during enforcement operations.

The initiative by the mining marshals reflects a proactive approach to combating illegal mining in Nigeria. Their efforts have led to the identification and recovery of numerous sites, arrests of offenders, and enhancement of security for legitimate miners. Continued training and technological advancements suggest a sustainable strategy for maintaining law and order in the mining sector.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com

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