FOREIGN NATIONALS ARRESTED FOR FLAGRANT VIOLATION OF NIGER STATE MINING LAWS, AS CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL MINING CONTINUES

By Yunusa Saidu Ibrahim

The Niger State Government has intensified its enforcement drive against illegal mining, with two Chinese nationals apprehended for contravening state regulations that strictly prohibit unauthorised mining activities.

The arrest was made during a strategic regulatory inspection led by the Honourable Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Hon. Muhammad Qasim Danjuma (Danrimin Agaie), at the Zuzungi Mining Site. The operation exposed ongoing illegal mining activities being carried out in clear defiance of established legal and regulatory frameworks governing the sector in Niger State.

The suspects, found to be operating without valid licences and outside approved guidelines, were immediately handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with Nigerian laws.

The inspection team, which included the Permanent Secretary, Directors of the Ministry, and security operatives, underscores the State Government’s renewed resolve to clamp down on illegal operators, regardless of nationality, who exploit mineral resources in violation of the law.

Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner reiterated that Niger State maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining. He emphasised that all individuals and entities must adhere to due process, obtain requisite licences, and operate within the ambit of environmental and safety regulations. He warned that any breach of these provisions will attract swift and decisive sanctions.

He further noted that illegal mining not only undermines government revenue but also poses serious environmental risks and threatens the safety and wellbeing of host communities. As such, the State remains committed to protecting its natural resources through sustained enforcement, strengthened regulatory oversight, and inter-agency collaboration.

The permanent secretary of the ministry, later confirms that the suspects are currently being held by the authorities until relevant documents are provided. This decisive action aligns with the vision of His Excellency, Farmer Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago, under the New Niger Agenda, which prioritises transparency, lawful resource management, and sustainable development of the mining sector.