The Mining Marshals, a security unit created by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, have successfully shut down an illegal mining operation in the Rafin-Gabas community of Kokona Local Government Area in Nasarawa State. The operation, which was confirmed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, marked a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining activities and clean up the sector.
In a statement released by Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Thursday, it was revealed that the mining marshals dismantled the illegal site and arrested three foreign nationals involved in the illicit activities. The operation also exposed how the site had long evaded law enforcement, with reports indicating that it was being protected by compromised security personnel.
“Through a well-coordinated and strategic operation, the Mining Marshals successfully infiltrated the area, leading to the arrest of three foreign nationals. While several other suspects managed to escape, it is believed that some were aided by certain security operatives,” Alake said in the statement.
The minister lauded the Marshals for their efforts and described the operation as a breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining. He emphasized the government’s commitment to intensifying efforts to ensure that illegal mining is eliminated and that those responsible are held accountable.
John Onoja, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, confirmed that a manhunt is underway for the suspects who fled the scene. He further stated that investigations are ongoing to identify the security personnel who may have been complicit in facilitating the illegal mining activities. Additionally, the company behind the operation, as well as the fugitives, are facing criminal charges in the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Mining Marshals were established to tackle the rising challenge of illegal mining in Nigeria. Since their formation in 2024, the Federal Government has arrested 327 individuals and successfully prosecuted 143 for illegal mining activities. The Marshals, who are drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, have been specially trained to handle illegal miners, bandits, and other criminal elements in the country’s mining sector.
The operation in Nasarawa is part of a broader effort to enforce the laws regulating mining activities in Nigeria, ensuring that the sector operates legally and sustainably for the benefit of the nation.
