*Nigerian Government’s Mining Marshals successfully bust an illegal mining ring, and dismantle their heavily fortified mining site in Rafin Gabas, in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State

Gbenga Kayode | 绿帽献妻

The Nigerian Government’s Mining Marshals have successfully dismantled a heavily fortified illegal mining site in Rafin Gabas, in Kokona Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State, as part of ongoing efforts at curbing resource theft and illegal mining in the West African country.

The Federal Government, which disclosed this development Thursday, April 3, 2025, stated that the illegal mining site, which had long evaded law enforcement, was reportedly protected by the country’s “compromised security personnel”.

However, following a strategic and well-coordinated operation, the Mining Marshals penetrated the stronghold, leading to the arrest of three foreign nationals involved in the nefarious activities in the state.

Segun Tomori, Special Assistant to the Minister on Media Thursday, inna statement, said several other illegal mining suspects fled in the process, allegedly with the help of security operatives.

Speaking on the development, Dr. Oladele Alake, Honourable Minister for Solid Minerals Development (MSMD), commended the operation.

Alake described it as a major breakthrough in the Federal Government’s ongoing fight against illegal mining in Nigeria.

The Minister stated: “This is a crucial milestone in our tireless efforts to sanitise the mining sector. “We are committed to cracking down on illegal mining operations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.”

In his remarks also, ACC. John Attah Onoja, Commander of the Mining Marshals, confirmed that the site has been sealed off following the raid.

Onojah said: “A manhunt is currently underway for the suspects who escaped, and investigations are ongoing to identify any security personnel involved in facilitating these illegal activities.”

The Commander also disclosed that the company behind the illegal operations, along with some of the suspects on the run, have pending criminal charges in the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The statement further noted that during the 1st Anniversary of the Mining Marshals recently, the Minister Alake reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining in the country.

He equally announced plans to enhance the operational capacity of the Mining Marshals through satellite monitoring of mining sites, as well as the provision of state-of-the-art equipment, amongst others.