CG MINING MASHAL CONDUCT CLEARANCE OPERATIONS AGAINST ECONOMIC SABOTAGE, EMPHASIZE INTENSE DRIVE TO PROTECT NATION'S CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.

The NSCDC Mining Marshal intensifies its crackdown on illegal mining operations with a recent clearance exercise carried out by the Mining Marshals in Jaguna, off Iye/Odogbe communities in Yagba East Local Government Area, Kogi State.

It will be recalled that on 15th July 2024, Jaguna, an area surrounded by forest, was raided by the NSCDC Mining Marshals, resulting in the arrest of seven suspected illegal gold miners. Labourers on-site were given a directive to vacate the area within five days.

Rather than comply with the directive, the illegal miners mobilized additional workers and fortified the site with armed protection. This led to the marching order given by the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, to dislodge them.

For over 16 years, the rightful mining license holders have been unable to access the location due to the activities of armed illegal miners. Acting on intelligence reports suggesting that the illegal operators had remained defiant, the NSCDC Mining Marshals, stormed the site, neutralized the resistance from the armed gangs, and successfully cleared the area.

Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, reiterated the commitment of the Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, to eradicate illegal mining in the country. He issued a stern warning to all involved in these illegal activities, regardless of their status, to desist or face the full wrath of the law.