In a recent crackdown on illegal activities, a joint team of security operatives, including personnel from the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, has arrested 12 suspects involved in unauthorized mining in Ondo State. This operation was part of a broader effort to combat criminal activities, particularly kidnapping, across the region.

According to Olugbenga Atiba, the Senior Special Assistant on Security to the Governor of Ondo State, the suspects were apprehended during a targeted operation in Ondo’s three senatorial districts. The security team acted on credible intelligence, which led them deep into the forests where these illegal miners were operating.

The suspects, primarily from Niger and Zamfara States, include Abdullahi Ibrahim (40), Hassan Bala (40), Alawude Damilarin, Ajayi Ebukun (35), Oluwaseun Rufus (34), Adebayo James (25), Kamal Zaharadeen (25), Mohammed Bello Lawal (25), Yunusa Mohammed (24), Ma’azu Auwal (24), Bashir Muktar (24), and Kabiru Sani (21).

Atiba emphasized that this operation is part of ongoing efforts to prevent criminal activities in Ondo State, particularly those linked to kidnapping. The illegal miners had infiltrated the state, carrying out their unlawful activities until they were caught by the security forces.

The successful arrest of these individuals is a significant step in ensuring the safety and security of the residents of Ondo State. The government remains committed to maintaining law and order, and similar operations will continue to be conducted to rid the state of criminal elements.