By YM Bina

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye has reassured to intensify efforts against illegal mining activities across the state as the Mining Marshals Unit records a significant breakthrough in its ongoing operations.

The State command Public Relations Officer DSC Mohammed Rabiu Muti in a statement said acting on intelligence reports and the Commandant’s matching order on the alarming rate of illegal mining activities and illicit trading of mineral resources along the M.I. Wushishi axis of Minna.

He noted that the State Mining Marshals, SC Jibrin Mohammed, led a special enforcement operation targeted at illegal miners and dealers engaged in the unlawful exploitation and sale of solid minerals.

DSC Rabiu Muti explained that the operation was carried out early hours of Sunday that lasted for several hours , involved a strategic raid on identified hotspots and trading locations within the area.

The statement added that during the exercise, several suspects involved in the illegal purchase, sale and distribution of gold and other mineral resources were apprehended who are to be thoroughly investigated for necessary legal action.

Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects were allegedly operating without the requisite licences and approvals as stipulated under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.

The Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye reiterated the Command’s commitment to enforcing all laws regulating mining activities in Niger State. He warned individuals and groups involved in illegal mining and mineral trading to desist from such unlawful activities or face the full wrath of the law.

The Commandant further emphasized that illegal mining poses serious threats to national security, economic development and environmental sustainability.

He assured residents of the state that the Corps, through its Mining Marshals Unit, will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to protect the nation’s solid mineral resources and ensure that mining activities are conducted in accordance with extant laws and regulations.

The NSCDC Niger State Command remains resolute in its mandate of safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure while promoting lawful and responsible exploitation of the nation’s mineral resources.