The Niger State Ministry of Mineral Resources has announced that 41 people involved in illegal mining have been arrested. This action was taken with help from security forces to stop unlawful mining in different parts of the state.

Out of the 41 people arrested, 34 were men and 7 were women.

The operation was carried out on Friday by the State Commissioner, Alhaji Garba Yahaya. It focused on locations where illegal mining is common. These include areas behind the PDP Secretariat near El-Amin University and the Caterigwari Mechanic Village in Minna.

During the raid, authorities seized equipment such as pulping machines, hoses, shovels, and other simple tools used for mining.

Commissioner Yahaya said the government is fully committed to stopping illegal mining, which causes serious harm to the environment and pollutes the land.

He also advised community leaders and landowners not to sell land to unapproved miners. He warned that such actions help spread illegal mining and put people and nature at risk.

The Commissioner asked residents to support the government in its fight against illegal mining. He said lasting results can only come if everyone works together.

Yahaya assured the people that Governor Umar Mohammed Bago’s administration is focused on making Niger State safe and ready for business, both from within and outside the country.

He added that the fight against illegal mining would continue until the state is completely free from such activities.

“This government is focused on restoring peace, protecting the environment, and making sure the wealth of Niger State benefits all its citizens,” he said.