A joint task team commanded by Engr. Mayowa Omosebi, the Federal Mines Officer in Cross River State, and the state Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Mr. Effiom Ekaha, detained numerous illegal miners and confiscated their equipment in a decisive drive against illicit mining activities. This big move occurred on Wednesday, when the task group raided several sites where illegal mining activity were detected.
The operation, which involved collaboration between the Cross River State Government and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, targeted several locations known for illegal mining operations. The crackdown follows growing concerns over the adverse effects of unregulated mining on local communities and the environment.
Illegal mining has surged in recent years within the Cross River National Park and surrounding areas, prompting widespread alarm among concerned citizens and civil society organizations. Reports of environmental destruction, armed robberies, and fatalities linked to illicit mining have raised serious concerns.
The arrested individuals were found exploiting and damaging natural resources in various locales. The task force has highlighted the detrimental long-term impacts of such activities, including environmental degradation and community disruption. They emphasized the urgency of addressing the illegal mining crisis to prevent further ecological damage and safeguard local livelihoods.
In a media interview, Commissioner Ekaha revealed that the governor had directed a comprehensive crackdown on illegal mining operations following detailed intelligence reports. He stressed that addressing these activities is critical not only for national security and economic stability but also for protecting the environment.
Ekaha emphasized the state government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal mining to preserve the environment and ensure sustainable development. He expressed dismay at the destruction inflicted on an artisanal mineral processing plant, which was intended to benefit local youth and reduce the need for imported minerals.
The task force also inspected unauthorized sand dredging operations in Mfom 2, Yala Local Government Area, and an illegal quarry site in Njua Bano, Boki Local Government Area. These sites were found to be managed by individuals from other states who lacked government approval.