FG deploys eight gun trucks against illegal mining, arrests top 300 offenders

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Federal Government has intensified its war against illegal mining with the deployment of eight operational gun trucks to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, even as it disclosed that the specialised unit has arrested over 300 illegal miners and secured numerous convictions within two years.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Henry Dele Alake, disclosed this on Tuesday during the commissioning of the vehicles and the unveiling of a compendium titled, The Guardians of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals: Two Years of Commitment and Service by the Mining Marshals, in Abuja.

Alake said the Federal Government would continue to strengthen the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals through the provision of modern technology and armoured vehicles to tackle illegal mining activities nationwide.

The minister noted that more than 150 suspects have been prosecuted by the unit since its establishment, adding that the Marshals have emerged as a critical force in protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources and boosting non-oil revenue.

He warned illegal miners and their collaborators against sabotaging government efforts to sanitise the mining sector.

“They are saboteurs and enemies of the state who will be dealt with according to the law,” Alake said.

Representing the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (Rtd.) commended the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development for supporting the Mining Marshals, saying the collaboration has contributed significantly to securing the nation’s mineral assets.

He pledged sustained support for the outfit through improved funding, training and operational logistics.

Also speaking, Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Audi, represented by Deputy Commandant General Zakari Ibrahim Ningi, described the intervention as unprecedented and reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to combating illegal mining.

“The newly acquired gun trucks will be deployed strictly for operational purposes in the fight against illegal mining,” he assured.

National Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah Onoja, said the additional logistics would further enhance the unit’s effectiveness, urging Nigerians and security agencies to support efforts to protect the nation’s mineral wealth from illegal exploitation.