The Kogi government has arrested not fewer than 10 persons over illegal mining, according to Bashiru Gegu, solid and natural resources commissioner.

He told journalists on Monday in Lokoja that the special task force on smuggling and related crimes, which made the arrests, also impounded 50 trucks carrying coal.

Mr Gegu added that the arrest and seizures followed Gov. Yahaya Bello’s recent order banning illegal mining in the north-central state.

“The defaulters shall be prosecuted accordingly. The action taken today is to send a message to defaulters that ‘Operation Stop Illegal Mining In Kogi’ is on course.

“We are working with the support of the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), State Security Service (SSS), and local vigilantes.

“Over the years, we have asked miners in the state, who are approved by the Federal Government, to register with the state ministry of solid minerals and natural resources, but they always refused.

“All directives fell on deaf ears with people brazenly destroying our communities. Illegal mining is totally prohibited in Kogi.

“We hereby warn all illegal mining companies and individuals to stop their activities forthwith, or the long hands of the law will catch up with them,” he warned

Mr Gegu appealed to residents of Kogi to be vigilant and to report anyone found engaging in illegal mining.

Friday Makama, chairman of the special task force, in a remark, declared that it would no longer be business as usual for illegal miners in the state.

“It is unfortunate that some set of individuals are milking Kogi of its natural resources. That is why Gov. Yahaya Bello, who wants the best for the People of Kogi, put a stop to illegal mining in the state.

“All miners in Kogi must operate within the ambit of the law; my duty is to ensure the enforcement of the directive given by our governor,” he said.

(NAN)