FG Shuts Down Illegal Tin Mining Site in Kaduna

In a strategic move hailed as a model for peaceful enforcement, the Federal Government has successfully dismantled a long-standing illegal mining operation in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The operation, carried out by the Mining Marshals under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, was executed without confrontation, relying on intelligence gathering and community engagement. This was disclosed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, during the first anniversary of the creation of the Mining Marshals.

The illegally occupied mining site, rich in tin deposits, is legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited but had been under the control of illegal miners for months. Local residents reported significant environmental degradation, economic setbacks, and rising insecurity linked to the unauthorized activities.

“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,” read a statement from the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori.

Unlike previous enforcement efforts in other regions which involved the use of force, the Kaduna operation stood out for its peaceful execution. The Marshals engaged with traditional leaders and community stakeholders, leading to the voluntary withdrawal of the illegal miners under official supervision.

Commending the operatives, Dr Alake emphasized the government’s commitment to equipping the Mining Marshals with more resources to carry out similar interventions nationwide. “The reward for hard work is more work,” he said, promising enhanced logistics and support.

He described the Kaduna operation as a blueprint for future action in curbing illegal mining and restoring investor confidence in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

“The Kaduna operation could serve as a model for future interventions if we get the buy-in of locals and community leaders. Illegal mining and insecurity remain major obstacles to the development of the mining sector,” Dr Alake stated.

He praised the diplomatic handling of the situation, noting that illegal mining threatens lives, livelihoods, and long-term investment.

“This intervention brings long-awaited relief. The success in Damau is proof that with the right strategy, we can protect our mineral resources and promote sustainable development,” the Minister added.