CALABAR – In a significant blow to illegal mining activities, the Cross River State government’s Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce, led by Chairman Prince Paul Bassey Effiong, has arrested 21 suspected illegal miners in a joint operation with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The operation, which spanned several days across Biase, Yakurr, and Obubra local government areas, targeted activities that posed severe economic and environmental threats to the state.
Prince Effiong, who spearheaded the enforcement team, hailed the operation as a major success in the ongoing government efforts to regulate mining and safeguard Cross River’s valuable natural resources.
“This operation is a clear message that the Cross River state government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, will not tolerate illegal mining activities. Our natural resources must be preserved for the benefit of all, not exploited unlawfully,” he declared.
Governor Bassey Otu was credited for fostering an enabling environment that empowered both the task force and security agencies to mount a robust response against illegal mining.
Effiong emphasised the importance of inter-agency cooperation, noting that the combined efforts of the police, army, NSCDC, and Airforce were instrumental in the operation’s success.
NSCDC Commandant in Cross River, Charles Brown, who paraded the suspects following their arrest, reiterated the Corps’ commitment to curbing illegal mining.
“We need the cooperation of the people to fight this menace. If you see something, say something. These illegal activities are depriving the state and the nation of valuable resources,” Brown urged.
He also noted that many of the arrested individuals originated from northern parts of Nigeria, warning against the potential spread of security challenges linked to illegal mining in the state.
During the operation, security personnel recovered an array of mining tools, including shovels, pumping machines, diggers, boots, and hoses, underscoring the scale of the illicit activities.
Commandant Brown further called on traditional rulers, chiefs, and opinion leaders to take active roles in protecting their communities. “The community belongs to you, and it is being desecrated. We need your support to stop these illegal activities,” he said.
The arrested suspects are set to face legal proceedings as authorities reaffirm their determination to protect Cross River’s resources.
This decisive action marks a renewed commitment by both the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts against illegal mining and preserve the natural heritage of Cross River for future generations.
