Task Force arrests 20 suspected illegal miners in Taraba

The Anti-Illegal Mining Task Force in Taraba State has arrested 20 suspected illegal miners during an operation aimed at curbing unauthorized mining activities across the state.

The operation, led by the Commander of the Task Force, Superintendent of Police Jamu Emmanuel, was carried out on Saturday following credible intelligence about the suspects’ movement.

According to the task force, the suspects were intercepted while travelling to an illegal mining site within Taraba State.

Preliminary findings indicate that all 20 suspects are from Zamfara State and allegedly entered Taraba to engage in illegal mining activities without the required authorisation.

Confirming the arrests, SP Jamu Emmanuel said the suspects are currently in custody and will be transferred to the Taraba State Police Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He also disclosed that items recovered during the operation are being properly documented as part of the ongoing investigation.

The task force commander reiterated the determination of security agencies to clamp down on illegal mining across the state, warning that anyone found violating mining regulations would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

He further appealed to residents to support security agencies by providing credible and timely information that would assist efforts to protect the state’s mineral resources and strengthen law and order.