Group Demands Probe into Fatal Clash at Kaduna Illegal Mining Site

The Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union has called on government authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into a violent clash involving suspected illegal miners in the Randagi community of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

The call comes amid reports of multiple fatalities resulting from the violent conflict, though official casualty figures have not yet been confirmed by the Kaduna State Government or security agencies.

In an official statement, the union expressed deep concern over the tragic event, offering condolences to the bereaved families in Randagi and wishing a quick recovery to those injured. The group emphasized that a comprehensive probe is essential to establish the exact circumstances behind the conflict and to ensure that those responsible face full legal accountability.

In addition to the immediate security response, the union urged the Federal Government, the Kaduna State Government, and regulatory bodies to enforce stricter oversight on mining across the region. Community members have consistently cited widespread environmental degradation, including the destruction of agricultural lands, damage to public infrastructure, and the contamination of nearby water supplies due to the use of hazardous processing chemicals.

The union noted that despite Birnin Gwari’s vast mineral wealth—particularly commercial deposits of gold—host communities have reaped little economic benefit. They advocated for policies that turn mineral exploitation into tangible local development, such as improved healthcare, schools, roads, and job creation.

Birnin Gwari remains one of Kaduna State’s primary mineral zones, but it has also been severely impacted by banditry and armed violence. Security experts have frequently warned that illicit mining operations often intersect with organized crime, as armed groups seek control over lucrative sites.

Appealing for calm, the progressive union urged residents of Randagi and the broader emirate to avoid reprisal attacks and cooperate fully with law enforcement officers as investigations continue.