{
  "id": 10192060,
  "title": "Joint task force intensifies crackdown on illegal mining in Taraba",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/27/joint-task-force-intensifies-crackdown-on-illegal-mining-in-taraba",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-27T10:10:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Post Nigeria",
    "slug": "daily-post-nigeria",
    "url": "https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/27/joint-task-force-intensifies-crackdown-on-illegal-mining-in-taraba/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Joint Task Force on Anti-Mining Operations in Taraba State has ramped up its efforts to combat illegal mining in Kusum, Badakoshi, and Mayo Kam areas of Bali Local Government Area. Under the command of Major A.M. Ghali, the task force conducted a dawn raid on Sunday, targeting illegal mining sites at Daban Kusum, Daban Faransa, and Daban Yarima. According to a statement from Auwal Mohammed, the state's Special Adviser on Mining, the operation resulted in the dismantling of illegal mining activities and the seizure of eight mining machines. Additionally, eight suspects were arrested, awaiting investigation and potential prosecution.\n\nIn a follow-up operation, the task force intercepted five vehicles suspected of transporting mining equipment towards Mayo Kam and Daka. These vehicles were found to be carrying mining machines, a large monazite separator, water-pumping generators, and other mining equipment. Over 50 mining machines were confiscated during the operation, but logistical challenges limited the evacuation of eight machines from the challenging terrain. To secure the remaining equipment, vigilantes and hunters have been assigned to the task.\n\nThe arrested suspects and the confiscated machines are currently in custody, with ongoing investigations. Major Ghali acknowledged the daunting task posed by the difficult terrain, noting that personnel often relied on motorcycles and trekked long distances to reach remote locations. The governor's and residents' support have been instrumental in motivating the task force to protect the state's mineral resources. The commander emphasized that the operation would continue, with a pledge to eliminate illegal mining activities throughout the affected regions.",
  "summary": "The Joint Task Force on Anti-Mining Operations in Taraba State has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities in Kusum, Badakoshi and Mayo Kam areas of Bali Local Government Area of the state. The operation, conducted in the early hours of Sunday under the command of Major A.M. Ghali, targeted illegal mining sites in Daban Kusum, Daban […] Joint task force intensifies crackdown on…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}