THE Kogi state government has arrested 10 miners operating illegally in the Ankpa Local Government Area of the state.
The State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Bashiru Gegu disclosed this on Monday.
Gegu, who noted that operation to stop illegal mining in Kogi State is on course, said the government has confiscated over 50 trucks carrying coal illegally with the support of the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilantes.
“We must implement the Federal Government policy and help in revenue generation. Over the years we have asked miners in the State approved by the Federal Government to register with the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources. This has, however, fallen on deaf ears with people brazenly destroying our communities. Illegal mining is prohibited in Kogi State.”
The Commissioner warned all illegal mining companies and individuals to stop immediately as the long hands of the law are set to catch up with them, saying that anyone found wanting would be prosecuted.
