FG cracks down on illegal mining, arrests two suspects in Osun

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to eliminate illegal mining activities, leading to the arrest of two suspected perpetrators in Osun State. The arrests occurred during a coordinated enforcement operation targeting an illegal mining site at Ileki-Ijesa, along the Ile-Ife/Ilesa Road.

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The arrested suspects, Danladi Isa and Musa Kabiru, both in their twenties, were casual workers. Both are giving useful information that would help investigators fish out their sponsors.

The apprehended suspects, Danladi Isa and Musa Kabiru, both in their twenties, were reportedly casual workers at the site. They are currently cooperating with investigators, providing information that could lead to the apprehension of their sponsors. The operation was conducted by officials from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development across Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states, in collaboration with security agencies.

Upon arrival, some suspects fled into the bush, but two were apprehended. Mining equipment and tools used in the illegal operation, including motorcycles, generators, and gold-trapping carpets, were confiscated. The enforcement team dismantled the main operational bases and sealed off the site.

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The operation forms part of the Federal Government’s sustained efforts to enforce compliance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, protect the environment, safeguard lives and preserve the nation’s mineral resources.

Mr. Ajibade Ganiyu, the Southwest Zonal Mines Officer who led the operation, stated that the action is part of the government's sustained commitment to enforce the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, protect the environment, and preserve national resources. He emphasized the ministry's dedication to continuous surveillance and enforcement nationwide.

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The Ministry, under the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Henry Dele Alake, remains committed to conducting continuous surveillance and enforcement operations across the Southwest and other parts of the country to eliminate illegal mining and restore sanity to the sector.

Osun State Mines Officer Mr. Wasiu Adeboye added that the operation sends a strong message that illegal mining will not be tolerated, warning that sponsors, financiers, and perpetrators will face legal consequences. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, highlighted the Tinubu administration's priority on sanitizing the mining sector through reforms and robust enforcement.

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The operation sends a clear message that illegal mining will no longer be tolerated, warning that sponsors, financiers and perpetrators of the illicit trade would continue to face the full weight of the law.