Security operatives arrest five in Oyo over illegal sand mining

Five people have been arrested after authorities found alleged illegal laterite and gravel mining at the Akufo Farm Settlement in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The arrests followed a joint operation by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency and security personnel. Officials intercepted and impounded a trailer loaded with laterite and gravel as it left the settlement.

An excavator believed to have been used for excavation and loading was also seized, although its operator had fled. Authorities said freshly prepared food and personal belongings found near the abandoned machine suggested the operator left shortly before, or after, seeing the enforcement team.

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The operation was prompted by concerns over the unauthorised excavation and removal of laterite and gravel from agricultural land under the management of OYSADA.

Inspectors found several suspected excavation sites, including areas within existing plantations. Officials said a cassava plantation with mature crops reportedly ready for harvest had been destroyed and left to waste. A farmer alleged that at least 50 trailer-loads of laterite and gravel were being removed from the settlement each day.

The five unidentified suspects were detained at the Amotekun Corps divisional headquarters in Ido pending further investigation and arraignment before a court. Authorities described the activity as unlawful and a threat to the preservation and development of government agricultural land.

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Of particular concern was a cassava plantation where mature cassava crops reportedly ready for harvest had been destroyed and left to waste as a result of the excavation.