The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested 15 suspected illegal gold miners in Egbetua Community, Ososo, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state.
The Edo State Commandant of the NSCDC, Gbenga Agun, stated this on Thursday, noting that the arrest was carried out by operatives of the Auchi Area Command at Ode Forest in Egbetua following a tip-off.
He explained that acting on credible information, NSCDC officers stormed the Ode Forest and apprehended 15 suspects.
Confirming the development, Agun emphasised that it is the statutory responsibility of the NSCDC to protect both the people and the country’s solid mineral resources.
“I can confirm that 15 suspects were arrested on Monday for illegal gold mining in Egbetua Community, Ososo, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state.
“It is our statutory duty to arrest and prosecute those engaged in illegal mining of any solid minerals across the country,” Agun stated.
He warned other illegal miners in the state to desist from such activities, adding that the command is determined to flush out illegal miners and other criminal elements.
It was recently discovered that an illegal gold mining site had been operating in Egbetua for over 25 years, with hundreds of miners engaging in unregulated activities.
Residents claim that these illegal mining operations have led to significant socioeconomic and security challenges in the community. They allege that the activities have resulted in the loss of ecosystems, increased insecurity, and worsening poverty, particularly for peasant farmers who depend on environmental resources for their livelihood.
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