In a firm move to tackle unlawful mining, Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Minister, Dr Dele Alake, has commanded special mining marshals to shut down an illegal gold mining site in the Gwagwalada area of Abuja. The order was given after officials received reports of the site, which was thought to pose a serious risk to the environment and public safety.
This recent action comes just weeks after the same team successfully closed another illegal mine in a nearby part of Gwagwalada in mid-August. So far, sixteen suspects have been arrested in connection with the activities and are expected to be prosecuted soon. It is believed the mining started by accident, when people digging a soak-away pit for a house unexpectedly struck a vein of gold.
After receiving new intelligence that mining had started again, Minister Alake promptly sent the marshals to secure the area. Officials from the ministry later visited the site and confirmed that the minister’s instruction had been followed correctly. They have now started a full investigation to find out how this happened and to recommend ways to stop it occurring again.
The commander of the mining marshals confirmed his team is now watching both affected sites around the clock while the government’s inquiry continues. Due to the dangers, Minister Alake has advised local people to stay away from the areas while the clean-up and enforcement work is carried out.
The minister restated the government’s strong determination to put an end to illegal mining across Nigeria. He announced that the ministry is speeding up the use of satellite technology to watch mining operations all over the country, which will greatly strengthen the ability to enforce the law.
Discussion about this post