The Taraba State Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce has intensified its crackdown on unlawful mining activities, raiding a suspected illegal gold mining site in Bali Local Government Area and arresting two individuals.
The operation, which took place on Monday, targeted mining camps located in Mayo Kam and Gantu villages. It was led by the chairman of the taskforce, Emmanuel Jamu, following weeks of intelligence gathering.
According to a statement released by the taskforce, security operatives navigated difficult terrain to access the remote site. However, most of the suspected miners fled into nearby forests upon sighting the approaching officers, abandoning their equipment.
Despite the escape of several suspects, two individuals were apprehended while attempting to flee the scene. Authorities also recovered multiple items believed to be used for illegal mining, including pumping machines, generators, diggers, and mineral processing tools.
Speaking after the operation, Jamu reaffirmed the taskforce’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining in the state.
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“We are sending a clear message. Whether they are here or not, we will keep coming. They may run today, but they cannot run forever. They will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.
He further appealed to traditional rulers and community leaders to support ongoing efforts by providing credible intelligence that could lead to the arrest of other suspects still at large.
The Taraba State Government has reiterated its determination to protect the state’s mineral resources and ensure that illegal mining activities are completely eliminated.
The two arrested suspects remain in custody, while the taskforce disclosed that further operations are planned in other identified high-risk areas across the state.
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