The Taraba State Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce has arrested two suspected illegal miners during a coordinated operation at an illegal gold mining site located in Mayo Kam, Gantu village, in Bali Local Government Area of the state.
Chairman of the taskforce, Mr. Emmanuel Jamu, disclosed the development to journalists in Jalingo on Monday, stating that the operation was carried out after weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance.
According to him, security personnel involved in the operation had to navigate difficult terrain before reaching the remote mining location where the raid was conducted.
Jamu explained that many of the suspected illegal miners escaped into nearby forests shortly before the arrival of the taskforce, making it difficult to apprehend everyone involved.
However, he said two suspects were successfully arrested while attempting to flee the scene during the operation.
The taskforce also recovered several items allegedly used in the illegal mining activities.
Among the exhibits recovered were pumping machines, generators, digging tools and various mineral-processing equipment believed to have been used for the extraction and processing of gold.
Jamu said the operation forms part of the government’s broader efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities across Taraba State.
He stressed that the taskforce would continue to pursue individuals involved in unlawful mining operations until they are brought to justice.
“We want to send a clear message. Whether they are there or not, we will keep trying. They can run today, but they cannot run forever. They will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The chairman also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to support the government’s efforts by providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of other suspects still on the run.
According to him, community cooperation remains essential to dismantling illegal mining networks operating across the state.
Jamu disclosed that the two arrested suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
He added that the taskforce would sustain enforcement operations in other communities identified as illegal mining hotspots.
The chairman assured residents that the government remains committed to enforcing the ban on illegal mining activities and protecting the state’s mineral resources from unlawful exploitation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that the Taraba State Government suspended all mining activities across the state on June 19 over growing security concerns linked to mining operations.
Following the suspension, the government established the Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce to enforce compliance with the directive and curb unauthorised mining activities throughout the state.
