Illegal mining: NSCDC Mining Marshals begin fresh crackdown in Nasarawa

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC Mining Marshals, have commenced a new crackdown on illegal mining in Nasarawa State. This move follows a joint enforcement and compliance operation conducted by the Mining Marshals in partnership with other security bodies across specific areas of Nasarawa State. Assistant Commandant of Corps, ACC Attah John Onoja, who leads the Mining Marshals, revealed that the initiative aims to curb unlawful mineral extraction and ensure adherence to mining regulations.

Onoja emphasized that the operation is driven by the understanding that illegal mining is not only an economic offense but also poses significant national security issues. These issues include impacts on environmental sustainability, community stability, government revenue, and investor confidence. He further explained that the collaborative operation involving various security and regulatory agencies is intended to foster intelligence-sharing, bolster capacity to identify and neutralize illicit mining networks, and ensure the safety of those arrested during the crackdown.

The Mining Marshals reiterated their commitment to enforcing mining laws and protecting the nation's mineral resources, aligning with the policy directive of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi. This latest operation in Nasarawa State follows a recent controversy involving the deaths of 37 miners while under NSCDC custody in Niger State.