Twelve individuals were arrested on Thursday by the Ondo State Security Task Force, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, for alleged involvement in illegal mining activities within the state. The arrests were part of a broader crackdown aimed at curbing the illegal extraction of solid minerals, which has been linked to criminal activities.
Mr. Olugbenga Atiba, the Senior Special Assistant on Security to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, disclosed the arrests during the parade of the suspects at the 32 Artillery Brigade barracks in Akure. Atiba emphasized that the operation was a joint effort involving various security agencies, all determined to rid the state of those exploiting its natural resources illegally.
"The suspects were apprehended following intelligence reports linking illegal mining to kidnapping activities in the state," Atiba said. He highlighted that security personnel had been strategically deployed across Ondo’s three senatorial districts, venturing deep into the jungles to thwart such illegal operations and prevent further crimes.
Atiba also pointed out the significant damage caused by illegal mining in other regions, notably Niger State, and revealed that some of the key perpetrators in Ondo State hail from Niger and Zamfara.
"We have stationed security operatives throughout the state to diligently perform their duties. We've also identified some local leaders involved in these illegal activities, and the state government is working through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to address these issues," Atiba added.
The crackdown reflects the state government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining and its associated criminal networks.
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