FG shutdown illegal mining site in Kaduna

The Federal Government has shut down an illegal mining site in Damau, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State, in a peaceful operation led by the Mining Marshals on May 4, 2025.

The site, which contains valuable tin deposits and is legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited, had been taken over by illegal miners for several months.

Their activities were blamed for causing environmental harm, economic losses, and insecurity in the area, according to local reports.

Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said the operation was carried out without confrontation.

Instead, the Marshals engaged traditional rulers and mobilized community support to encourage a peaceful evacuation.

The illegal miners left the site without resistance, drawing praise from local leaders.

“The intervention is a relief. The miners were a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and legal investments,” one community member said.

Minister Alake, speaking during the Mining Marshals’ first anniversary, praised the operation as a model for future enforcement efforts.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining and promised additional resources to support the Marshals’ work.

“The Kaduna operation demonstrates that with community cooperation, we can protect our mineral resources and restore investor confidence,” Alake said.

He urged communities across the country to support federal efforts in combating illegal mining through both enforcement and dialogue.

The Star