Taraba Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce raids gold site, arrests two suspects
Taraba State Taskforce Launches Operation Against Illegal Gold Mining
The Taraba State Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce conducted a raid on Monday at a suspected illegal gold mining site in the Mayo Kam and Gantu villages, located in the Bali Local Government Area. During the operation, taskforce members arrested two individuals and recovered various mining equipment.
Emmanuel Jamu, the chairman of the taskforce, led the operation, which was the result of weeks of intelligence gathering. According to a statement released by the taskforce, the security team encountered challenging terrain to reach the remote location.
Most miners reportedly fled into nearby forests before the taskforce’s arrival, leaving behind tools and machinery. However, two suspects attempting to escape were apprehended, and several items used in illegal mining—including pumping machines, diggers, generators, and processing materials—were confiscated.
Jamu emphasized the taskforce’s commitment to continuing its efforts against illegal mining activities in the state. “We are here to send a clear message,” he stated. “They can run today, but they cannot run forever. They will face the full weight of the law.”
He urged traditional rulers and community leaders to provide credible information that could lead to the capture of additional suspects still at large.
The Taraba State government has reiterated its dedication to protecting the state’s mineral resources and ensuring that illegal mining operations cease. The two individuals arrested are currently in custody, and the taskforce plans further operations in other identified high-risk areas throughout the state.
