By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lokoja
Security operatives have arrested 14 suspected illegal miners in two separate operations in Kogi State.
Eight of the suspects were arrested last week, while six others were apprehended on Monday.
The State Security Adviser, Navy Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), disclosed this while parading the suspects in Lokoja.
Omodara described illegal mining as a major catalyst for insecurity, saying the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and illicit mining in the state.
He said the eight suspects arrested in the first operation were being prosecuted by the Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The Security Adviser commended officers and men of the 12 Brigade for their contributions to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
He also cautioned motor park officials to strictly monitor passengers and cargo in transit, warning that vehicles found conveying contraband items would be impounded.
Omodara urged traditional rulers to desist from harbouring illegal miners in their domains, stressing that the state government would not tolerate compromised traditional leadership.
He said the government, in collaboration with security agencies, remained committed to ensuring that illicit mining activities did not thrive in Kogi.
The Kogi State Commandant of the NSCDC, Olumide Aletan, said operatives would conduct thorough investigations into the newly arrested suspects before prosecuting them in accordance with the law.
