ARMY APPREHEND 12 ILLEGAL MINERS IN ONDO

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Operatives from the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure have apprehended twelve individuals involved in illegal mining activities in Ondo State.

It was discovered that the primary masterminds behind the illegal operations are originally from Niger and Zamfara states.

The individuals arrested include Abdullahi Ibrahim, 40; Hassan Bala, 40; Alawude Damilarin, 36; Ajayi Ebukun, Oluwaseun Rufus, Adebayo James, Kamal Zaharadeen, Mohammed Bello Lawal, Yunusa Mohammed, Ma’azu Auwal, Bashir Muktar, and Kabiru Sani.

Mr Olugbenga Atiba, the Senior Special Assistant on Security to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, stated during the parade of the suspects that this action is part of broader efforts to address illegal mining and other security challenges in the State.

Atiba said the illegal miners were arrested based on credible intelligence.

He said: “We had our men deployed across the three senatorial districts of Ondo, penetrating deep into the jungles to prevent kidnapping and make arrests where possible.

“We know the destruction that has been caused in Niger State by these illegal miners. The kingpins are from Niger and Zamfara.

“Upon discovering these illegal activities, immediate actions were taken. One of the first steps was conducting a reconnaissance to establish the presence of these illegal miners. We have now stationed security men throughout the state.

“We have also identified some individuals, including some local leaders, who are involved in these activities and causing problems. However, at the state government level, we are addressing this through the ministry of local government and chieftaincy affairs.”

Ondo Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Razaq Obe, called for mining stewardship not to be on the exclusive list.