The Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake, has revealed that 327 illegal mining suspects have been arrested across Nigeria since 2024, highlighting the efforts of the Mining Marshals (MM) in curbing illegal mining activities. This announcement was made on Friday as Alake celebrated the first anniversary of the MM’s operations.
The Mining Marshals, a security outfit established to combat illegal mining in the solid minerals sector, were inaugurated on March 21, 2024. Alake emphasized the significant progress made over the past year, including the prosecution of 143 individuals involved in illegal mining, in collaboration with other agencies. He stated that the key goal for 2025 is to secure convictions for the 327 suspects already arraigned in court, a move aimed at reinforcing legal compliance and deterring future violations.
Alake commended the role of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Army in assisting the MM’s operations. He highlighted recent successes, such as the sentencing of two foreign nationals in Ilorin, Kwara State, for illegal mining. This victory, alongside other successful prosecutions, underscores the ongoing efforts to clean up the solid minerals sector.
The minister also pointed out that the MM had recovered over 98 illegal mining sites in the past year, enabling licensed operators to return to work and boosting the country’s revenue from royalties. The Marshals have also identified 457 suspected illegal mining sites, significantly improving intelligence gathering and enforcement actions.
Looking ahead, Alake announced plans to expand the MM’s operations to more states in 2025. The outfit’s personnel will be increased, and more logistics, including vehicles and equipment, will be provided to strengthen their capabilities.
The Commandant of the Mining Marshals John Attah, expressed his gratitude for the minister’s support and urged the public to view their efforts as a national priority.
