No fewer than 60 suspected illegal miners have been arrested in an intensified crackdown by the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and Taskforce, marking a breakthrough in the state’s fight against unlawful mining activities.
The Chairman of the committee, Hon. Prince Paul Effiong, disclosed that the arrests were recorded within the last three months following coordinated covert operations carried out in collaboration with the State Security Adviser, Major General Okoi Ubi Obono (Rtd.).
According to him, the operations were strategically designed to dismantle illegal mining networks that pose serious environmental and security threats across the state.
A significant number of the suspects, over 40, were apprehended during recent raids in Akamkpa Local Government Area, while several illegal mining sites have been sealed off by the task force. The cumulative arrests bring the total number of suspected illegal miners detained so far to more than 60.
Hon. Effiong revealed that the taskforce is also working closely with the Nigeria Immigration Service to identify foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, with plans underway to deport offenders to their respective countries.
He noted that this measure is expected to drastically curb illegal mining activities in Cross River State.
To further address the rising violence associated with illegal mining, the task force has launched “Operation No Mercy,” aimed at flushing out illegal miners, their sponsors, and collaborators from affected communities.
The task force warned that illegal mining will not be tolerated, stressing that all offenders will face the full weight of the law. It also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible and legal mining practices that benefit Cross River State and its people.
Members of the public were urged to support the ongoing efforts by reporting suspicious mining activities, emphasising that community collaboration remains critical to keeping Cross River State safe, secure, and prosperous.
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