Zamfara Police Nab 21 in Illegal Mining Crackdown

Zamfara State Police Command has arrested twenty-one individuals suspected of illegal mining in a joint security operation across two local government areas. The arrests were made on Saturday in Boko Village, Zurmi LGA, and Kaya Village, Maradun LGA.

According to a statement released on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, the operation involved personnel from the Police Anti-Illegal Mining, Tactical, and Bomb Disposal Units. They were joined by officers from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development.

“The raid was successfully executed, leading to the arrest of 21 suspected illegal miners. The suspects are currently under investigation,” DSP Abubakar stated, adding that further developments would be communicated in due course.

This crackdown occurs against a backdrop of persistent illegal mining in Zamfara, an activity often linked to severe security challenges. Reports indicate that thousands of bandits occupy mining sites across the state, contributing to widespread insecurity that has displaced communities, particularly in resource-rich areas.

Despite repeated bans by federal and state authorities, illegal mining has continued unabated, with significant economic losses estimated daily. Recently, the Federal Government lifted a five-year mining ban in Zamfara, citing improved security conditions. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, stated the move aimed to boost regulated mining and curb illegal activities.

However, local reports suggest that illegal miners and bandits still control many sites, with violence and kidnappings continuing to affect residents. The latest police operation underscores the ongoing efforts to address this complex issue intertwining economic exploitation and security.