NSCDC destroys illegal mining site in Osun

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Osun State Command, has dismantled an illegal mining site located in the Sambisa area, Kajola, Atakumosa West Local Government Area of the State.
The operation was led by the state Commandant, Igbalawole Sotiyo, alongside operatives of the NSCDC, according to a statement by the command’s spokesperson, Adeleke Kehinde.
Sotiyo explained that the destruction of the mining site was part of ongoing efforts to combat the illegal mining scourge in Osun State.
He noted that the site was uncovered through intelligence gathering and surveillance.
“The illegal mining site at Sambisa Area, Kajola, Atakumosa West Local Government, Osun State, was discovered through intelligence gathering and surveillance. The suspects confessed to not having the necessary license or authorization to conduct operations in line with the law of the land,” Sotiyo said.
He emphasised that the NSCDC would persist in its efforts to crack down on illegal mining activities across the state and reminded the public that protecting the nation’s solid mineral resources was one of the corps’ core responsibilities.
He urged those engaged in such activities to cease immediately.
During the operation, several mining tools were destroyed.
“The items destroyed were draglines, pumping machines, and other equipment used for their illegal mining activities,” Sotiyo added.
A suspect was arrested, while others fled the scene, abandoning their equipment. Sotiyo assured the public that efforts were underway to apprehend the fugitives and hold them accountable for their actions. The NSCDC Commandant also appealed to the public to report any illegal mining activities in their vicinity, stressing that such cooperation would help safeguard the state from environmental degradation and economic sabotage