The Federal Government has banned mining activities at the site of a recent attack in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, where 12 miners were killed by bandits.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who vowed to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Alake expressed deep sorrow over the killings and assured that security agencies are working diligently to track down the bandits responsible.
He emphasized that no mining will be permitted at the attack site until investigations are complete.
Alake stated that the Mining Marshals, in collaboration with intelligence units and other security agencies, are focusing on the attack to uncover the bandits’ operations and connections.
“There is a new Sheriff in town, and combatting banditry in the mining sector is a mandate we are taking seriously,” he said.
“Those who think they can invade villages, kill innocent people to make way for illegal mining of their rich minerals, will be shocked to discover that it is no longer business as usual.”
He also mentioned that preliminary reports indicate that non-Nigerians might be involved in financing these criminal operations.
Alake warned that anyone found involved will be prosecuted for economic sabotage and waging war against the Nigerian State.
He urged embassies in Nigeria to monitor the activities of their nationals in the mining sector to prevent threats to bilateral relations.
