Nigeria’s Cross River State Cracks Down on Illegal Mining, Arrests Several Miners
In a bold move to curb the rampant illegal mining activities in Cross River State, Nigeria, the Federal Mines Officer, Engr. Mayowa Omosebi, alongside the state Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Mr. Effiom Ekaha, and security personnel, have arrested a number of illegal miners and seized their equipment and mining sites.
The operation, which took place on Wednesday, was a collaborative effort between representatives from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Cross River State Government. The taskforce visited identified sites, uncovering illegal activities by illicit miners, and arrested those found to be exploiting and degrading mineral reserves in several communities without authorization.
According to Mr. Ekaha, the state government had instructed a crackdown on illegal mining within the state, in collaboration with federal authorities, following intelligence reports. The objective is to address environmental degradation, economic repercussions, and security threats posed by illegal mining activities and their perpetrators.
The taskforce also inspected a vandalized artisanal mineral processing plant, which had the capacity to empower numerous youths. Mr. Ekaha expressed dismay at the damage inflicted on the facility, noting its purpose in encouraging local miners to return to designated sites and discouraging mineral imports.
The state government has reaffirmed its commitment to curbing illegal mining to prevent further harm to the ecosystem and surrounding areas. The task force highlighted efforts to enhance the economic value within the mining sector, as well as visited an illegal quarry site in Njua Bano, Boki LGA, and an unauthorized sand dredging site in Mfom 2, Yala LGA, operated by individuals from other states without government knowledge.
The development comes amid increasing concerns over the environmental and social impacts of illegal mining activities in the Cross River National Park and other communities. The state government’s decisive action is seen as a crucial step towards protecting the environment and promoting sustainable mining practices.
