Several foreign nationals and Nigerian citizens have been arrested over their alleged involvement in illegal mining in Amba Community, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The suspects were apprehended on Friday, July 17, during a security operation led by the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe.

The operation was part of efforts to curb illegal mining and strengthen compliance in the solid minerals sector. During the raid, security operatives recovered cartons of suspected illegally mined minerals and seized equipment, including CCTV cameras allegedly used to monitor activities and evade security surveillance.

Dr Akabe said the operation reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the state’s mineral resources, tackling illegal mining, and ensuring compliance with Nigeria’s mining laws.

The suspects will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution if found culpable.

The crackdown has been welcomed by many who see it as a necessary step to protect the state’s natural resources. Illegal mining has been a major concern in several parts of Nigeria, often leading to environmental degradation and loss of revenue.

The Nasarawa State government is determined to bring order to the sector.

The arrest of foreign nationals in the operation highlights the involvement of outsiders in illegal mining activities across the country. Authorities have vowed to continue such operations to deter others from engaging in unlawful mining.

The move is expected to send a strong message to those involved in the illegal trade. the raid