Kogi State Gov’t set up special task force to flush out illegal mining companies.

…..Seized over 50 trucks illegally transporting coal.

By Yahaya Idris, Lokoja. 

Kogi State Government has reportedly arrested 10 miners operating illegally in Ankpa Local Government Area of the State.

State Commissioner for
Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Hon. (Engineer) Muhammed Abubakar Bashir Gegu dropped the assertion, Monday, when his ministry in collaboration with the Kogi State Special Task Force on illegal smuggling of fire arms and other related crimes began the enforcement initiated by Governor Yahaya Bello to arrest and prosecute any individuals and companies caught for illegal mining activities.

The Solid Mineral Commissioner said the operation stop illegal mining in Kogi State will continue until the desire result is achieved.

According to him, the State Government has confiscated over 50 trucks carrying coal illegally with support of the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC), Department of State Services, (DSS), and local vigilantes among others.

Gegu said “We must implement the Federal Government policy and help in revenue generation. Over the years we have asked miners in the State approved by the Federal Government to register with the Ministry of solid Minerals and natural resources. This has however, fell on deaf ears with people brazenly destroying our communities. Illegal mining is totally prohibited in Kogi State”.

The Commissioner warned all illegal mining companies and individuals to stop forthwith as the long hands of the law is set to catch up with them.

He reassured that any one found wanting would be prosecuted.

Also speaking, Kogi State Special Task Force on illegal smuggling of fire arms and other related crimes Elder Friday Sani Makama said it will no longer be business as usual, adding that, the present administration will leave no stone unturned in arresting and prosecuting any individual caught engaging in illegal mining in Kogi State.

“Some set of individuals are milking the State of it’s natural resources. That is why, Governor Yahaya Bello who wants the best for the People of Kogi State said it was time to put a stop to illegal mining in Kogi.

“Our operation here is very simple. All miners in Kogi State must operate within the ambit of the law. And my duty here is to ensure the enforcement of the directive given by Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State”he added.