The Joint Task Force on Anti-Mining Operations in Taraba State has intensified its operations against illegal mining activities in Bali Local Government Area.
The latest operation, carried out in the early hours of Sunday under the command of Major A.M. Ghali, targeted illegal mining sites in Daban Kusum, Daban Faransa and Daban Yarima.
The task force reportedly dislodged illegal miners from the sites and seized eight mining machines.
Eight suspects were also arrested and taken into custody for investigation and possible prosecution.
In a related operation, the team intercepted five vehicles allegedly transporting mining equipment towards Mayo Kam and Daka.
The vehicles were reportedly carrying mining machines, water-pumping generators, a large monazite separator and other equipment used for mining.
More than 50 mining machines were reportedly confiscated during the operations. However, only eight could be evacuated from the bush due to the difficult terrain in the affected areas.
Vigilantes and hunters were subsequently deployed to secure the remaining equipment pending their evacuation.
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The task force said the seized machines and arrested suspects remained in custody as investigations continued.
Major Ghali said the difficult terrain had made the operation challenging, with personnel sometimes having to use motorcycles and trek long distances to reach remote mining locations.
He also acknowledged the support of the Taraba State Government and residents, saying it had encouraged the task force’s efforts to curb illegal mining and protect the state’s mineral resources.
Ghali said the operation would continue as the task force works to dismantle illegal mining activities across affected communities.
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