The Nigerian Federal Government has taken swift action following a tragic incident in Niger State, where bandits killed 12 miners at a site in Unguwar Magro Village, Shiroro Local Government Area. In response to this attack, the government has implemented a temporary ban on all mining activities in the area and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Key points:
- Mining operations are suspended at the attack site pending investigation.
- Security agencies are actively pursuing the bandits.
- Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, outlines the government’s response.
- Collaboration between mining marshals and intelligence units to enhance security
- Warning issued to potential foreign sponsors of criminal activities
In a statement released by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and assured the public that security measures would be intensified to protect mining sites across the country.
“There is a new sheriff in town, and combating banditry in the mining sector is a mandate we are taking seriously,” Alake declared. He emphasised the government’s commitment to cracking down on criminal elements seeking to control mineral-rich areas through violence and illegal mining activities.
The minister revealed that preliminary investigations suggest the possible involvement of non-Nigerian entities in funding these criminal operations. As a result, the government has issued a stern warning to foreign embassies, urging them to monitor their nationals’ activities within Nigeria’s mining sector.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Nigeria’s mining industry. The government’s response demonstrates its determination to safeguard both human lives and valuable natural resources.
As investigations continue, the mining community and local residents await further developments in this case, which have significant implications for the safety and economic stability of the region.