The Kogi State Government has commended troops of the Nigerian Army following the successful arrest of eight suspected illegal miners and the recovery of heavy mining equipment during a targeted operation around the Girinya Community Local Jetty and the Agbaja/Kakanda forest axis within Lokoja Local Government Area.
In an official press statement released on Saturday, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the military operation as a clear demonstration of the unwavering commitment of security agencies to safeguarding the state from unlawful activities that threaten its security, economy, and natural environment.
Fanwo revealed that the operation was executed by troops of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, who acted swiftly on credible intelligence regarding the movement of suspected illicit operators and specialized machinery moving from Girinya toward the Agbaja/Kakanda forest belt to conduct unauthorized mining.
He lauded the personnel for their rapid response, noting that the apprehension of the suspects and the interception of their gear would significantly bolster ongoing state efforts to curb unregulated resource extraction.
Highlighting the state’s position, the Information Commissioner expressed deep concern over the persistent activities of unauthorized miners who plunder local mineral deposits without regulatory compliance, thereby posing grave risks to public safety, environmental integrity, and the structured development of Kogi State’s solid minerals sector.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration to supporting legal, transparent mining operations that generate legitimate employment, boost government revenue, and foster sustainable economic development, while ensuring that illicit operators face the full wrath of the law.
Calling for active public participation, Fanwo urged residents and host communities across the state to remain vigilant and continuously supply security agencies with timely, reliable information on suspicious activities, emphasizing that community-backed intelligence remains vital to maintaining peace and regional stability.
He assured citizens that the Kogi State Government will maintain close synergy with the Nigerian Army and sister security agencies to safeguard lives, secure communities, and protect natural assets. Furthermore, he issued a stern warning to individuals involved in illicit mining to immediately cease all unauthorized operations and align with established legal frameworks governing the sector.
The eight arrested suspects alongside the confiscated mining equipment remain in the custody of relevant security authorities for comprehensive investigation and prosecution.
