The Federal Government has pledged to seek justice for the 12 miners who were brutally killed by bandits in Unguwar Magro Village, located in the Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. This tragic incident has shocked the nation, drawing attention to the urgent need for enhanced security measures in areas affected by mining activities.
Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, made a statement today expressing profound sorrow over the loss of the miners. He confirmed that security agencies are actively working to track down those responsible for this heinous act and promised that they will be brought to justice.
“We are committed to ensuring that those who committed this atrocity will face the full force of the law,” Alake said.
In response to the attack, the government has decided to suspend all mining operations at the site until a thorough investigation is completed. This measure is intended to ensure that no further incidents occur while authorities are working to secure the area and gather crucial information.
Alake highlighted that the Mining Marshals, along with intelligence units and other security agencies, are intensifying their efforts to locate the bandits. These criminal elements are believed to have crossed into Niger State from neighboring regions, making the operation to track them down even more challenging.
The Minister noted that this attack has been categorized as a special case, leading to a coordinated response from various agencies to uncover the bandits’ activities and dismantle their operations.
The fight against banditry, particularly in the mining sector, is a high priority for the current administration. Alake emphasized, “There is a new Sheriff in town, and combating banditry in the mining sector is a mandate we are taking seriously. Those who think they can invade villages and kill innocent people to pave the way for illegal mining will be in for a rude awakening. We will not tolerate such lawlessness.”
Furthermore, Alake revealed that preliminary reports suggest the involvement of non-Nigerians in funding these illegal mining operations. He warned that anyone found guilty of supporting or participating in these activities would be prosecuted for economic sabotage and waging war against the Nigerian state. This includes individuals and entities from other countries, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing this issue on an international scale.
The Minister also urged foreign embassies in Nigeria to monitor the activities of their nationals in the mining sector carefully. He warned that any involvement in criminal conduct by foreigners could negatively impact diplomatic relations between Nigeria and their home countries.
In a recent event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Alake revealed that Nigeria’s mineral resources are currently valued at over $700 billion. He highlighted the potential for further discoveries and Nigeria’s readiness to meet the increasing global demand for these vital resources. The Minister’s remarks underscored the importance of securing the mining sector to ensure its continued growth and contribution to the national economy.
