Chinese nationals on the run as taskforce uncovers illegal mining tunnel in Cross River
By Frank Ulom
IKOM (CONVERSEER) – The Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Task Force has uncovered a secret tunnel used for unauthorised mineral exploitation in Alesi community, Ikom Local Government Area.
The miners, believed to include Chinese nationals, reportedly fled the site upon learning of the task force’s presence.
Task Force Vows to Sustain Crackdown
Speaking during an inspection of the tunnel, Chairman of the Task Force, Prince Paul Effiong, pledged that the state would not relent in its campaign against illegal mining.
“Running away won’t stop the problem. All we are saying is that they should come out from their hiding place and report themselves to the committee,” Effiong said. “They shouldn’t allow us look for them otherwise the consequences will be grievous.”
He stressed that the state’s mineral resources cannot continue to be exploited unlawfully, warning that offenders will be tracked down and prosecuted.
“Our treasures cannot be carried away like that by a few mining through the backdoor. The war against all illegal mining activity will continue until we put an end to it. And those involved in this act are fished out and brought to book,” he added.
Call for Community Cooperation
Effiong urged residents of Alesi and neighbouring communities to support the campaign by reporting suspicious mining activities. He noted that genuine mining operations must be registered with state and federal authorities to avoid environmental degradation and loss of revenue.
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“You cannot go about destroying the environment without coming to identify with the state or federal government on the guise of mining iron ore, tamoulin or gold, degrading the environment without letting the state or federal government have an idea of what you are doing in that regard,” Effiong said.
Background on Illegal Mining in Cross River
Illegal mining has remained a pressing concern in Cross River State, particularly in mineral-rich areas such as Ikom, Obanliku, and Boki. Communities have reported increased environmental hazards, including deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation, caused by uncontrolled mining activities.
Beyond environmental threats, the state also faces significant economic losses as illegal operators bypass official channels, denying government much-needed revenue. Security agencies have also linked illegal mining sites to the activities of foreign nationals who exploit local loopholes.
The state government has repeatedly warned that it would strengthen enforcement, with the Anti-Illegal Mining Task Force serving as a central body in coordinating the crackdown.
The discovery of the Alesi tunnel marks a significant step in the task force’s ongoing operations, as officials reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that mineral exploration in Cross River follows due process and benefits host communities.
