Ondo Task Force, Army Arrest 12 Illegal Miners

On Thursday, a joint operation by the Ondo State Security Task Force and the Nigerian Army led to the arrest of 12 individuals suspected of illegal mining activities in the state.

Mr. Olugbenga Atiba, the Senior Special Assistant on Security to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, announced that the arrests were made possible through collaboration with various security agencies aimed at eradicating criminal activities related to mineral theft.

The suspects were paraded at the 32 Artillery Brigade Barracks in Akure.

According to Atiba, the operation followed intelligence on kidnapping activities, with the task force deployed across Ondo’s three senatorial districts to address these issues.

“We had our men deployed across the three senatorial districts of Ondo, penetrating deep into the jungles to prevent kidnapping and make arrests where possible. We know the destruction that has been caused in Niger State by these illegal miners. The kingpins are from Niger and Zamfara.

“Upon discovering these illegal activities, immediate actions were taken. One of the first steps was conducting a reconnaissance to establish the presence of these illegal miners.

“We have now stationed security men throughout the State, carrying out their duties diligently. We have also identified some individuals, including some local leaders, who are involved in these activities and causing problems. However, at the state government level, we are addressing this through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.”