Niger govt. cracks down on Illegal Mining, arrests 2 foreigners

By Daniel Ebi,Minna.

The Niger State Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities with the arrest of two foreign nationals during a regulatory enforcement operation at Zuzungi Mining Site in Katcha Local Government Area.

The operation was led by the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Muhammad Qasim Danjuma, alongside top officials of the ministry and security agencies.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Ministry’s Information Officer, Dibie Maureen, the suspects were apprehended for allegedly engaging in unauthorised mining activities contrary to existing mining regulations.

The statement added that the two foreigners have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.

It noted that the inspection formed part of the state government’s renewed efforts to enforce compliance in the mining sector, curb illegal exploitation of mineral resources, and ensure adherence to approved operational standards.

Speaking during the exercise, Danjuma reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining, stressing that all operators must obtain the necessary licences and comply with environmental and safety regulations.

He said the state government remained committed to protecting host communities, preserving the environment, and promoting lawful mining activities capable of attracting credible investors.

The commissioner added that the enforcement action aligns with the development agenda of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago’s administration, which seeks to reposition Niger State’s mining sector for sustainable growth and transparency.