Calabar, Cross River State – In a joint operation between the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, 21 individuals suspected of engaging in illegal mining activities have been apprehended in communities within Cross River State. The successful raid took place on May 11, resulting in the arrest of the suspects in the Utanga community of the Obanliku Local Government Area.
During a public parade held at the NSCDC headquarters in Calabar, Mr. Samuel Fadeyi, the state Commandant of the NSCDC, shed light on the potential dangers posed by illegal mining. He expressed concerns that these activities could exacerbate security challenges and lead to natural disasters within the affected communities.
“Our thorough investigation led us to the Utanga community in the Obanliku Local Government Area, where we uncovered and apprehended 21 individuals engaged in illegal mining,” stated Fadeyi.
He further disclosed, “The suspects were apprehended red-handed with their mining tools and equipment. They are currently under investigation, and we intend to bring them to justice through the appropriate legal channels.”
Fadeyi also highlighted the involvement of certain communities in facilitating these illicit activities, driven by short-term financial gains while disregarding the potential long-term consequences. He urged communities to seek legal permits from the Federal Mines Office and obtain proper guidance from mining officials before engaging in such activities.
Mayowa Omosebi, the Federal Mines Officer representing the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development in Cross River State, expressed the ongoing commitment to curbing illegal mining operations in the area.
Omosebi emphasized the need for increased funding, considering the challenging geographical terrain of Cross River State. He stated, “We require additional financial support due to the peculiarities of our state’s distance. The headquarters of our state office is quite far from the locations where these illegal activities are taking place.”
The Federal Mines Officer also pointed out that illegal mining operations often occur with the consent of the landowners. To address this, Omosebi initiated a stakeholders’ forum aimed at educating them about the importance of adhering to legal protocols and avoiding unlawful practices.
“The process of obtaining a mining license is straightforward, and we continuously advise individuals to explore the appropriate channels and refrain from engaging in illegal activities,” added Omosebi.
In the course of the operation, the NSCDC successfully confiscated a range of implements utilized in the illegal mining operations, including pumping machines, diggers, head-pans, and shovels.
The joint efforts of the NSCDC and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development serve as a resolute warning to those involved in illegal mining activities. The arrests and subsequent investigations demonstrate a commitment to upholding the law, safeguarding communities, and preserving the environment from the detrimental effects of illegal mining.
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