By Aliyu Galadima
Federal government has shut down a mining site occupied by illegal miners for months.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, disclosed the closure, which he said was executed by the Mining Marshals in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According to a statement released by Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the operation focused on a tin-rich site legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited.
But he said the site has been occupied by illegal miners for several months.
He said, “In a deft move, the Mining Marshals have successfully shut down an illegal mining site in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State, using a blend of community engagement and diplomacy.
“The operation focused on a tin-rich site legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited, which had been occupied by illegal miners for several months. Community members reported that the activities had caused significant economic losses, environmental degradation, and heightened insecurity in the area”.
He said the Kaduna operation could serve as a model for future interventions if the government gets the buy-in of locals and community leaders.
He added, “Illegal mining and insecurity remain major obstacles to the development of the mining sector.
“However, the outcome in Damau offers a glimpse of how a mix of enforcement and dialogue can turn the tide. I urge communities to cooperate with us to deal with this menace and restore investor confidence in the sector.
“The diplomatic approach is commendable. The activities of the dislodged illegal miners posed a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and investment. This intervention brings long-awaited relief.
