The Nigerian Army has arrested nine individuals suspected to be foreign nationals in Taraba State for illegal mining and attempting to smuggle precious stones out of the area.
The operation took place on December 17, 2024, at a military checkpoint in Garba-Chede, located in the Bali Local Government Area of Taraba.
According to Captain Oni Olubodunde, the spokesperson for the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the suspects were caught transporting sacks of mined stones concealed under animal hay in a truck with a foreign registration number.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Abubakar Suleiman, was among those apprehended during the operation.
“Troops of 6 Brigade deployed at Garba-Chede checkpoint intercepted a truck acting on credible intelligence,” Olubodunde stated.
He revealed that the precious stones were hidden in sacks covered with dry grasses to avoid detection.
The Nigerian Army swiftly handed the suspects and the seized items to the Taraba State Special Taskforce Committee on Environmental Protection, Public Safety, and Prohibition of Deforestation for further investigation and prosecution.
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, the Commander of 6 Brigade, expressed the army’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s natural resources and upholding environmental laws.
“The Brigade is resolute in supporting civil authorities to enforce regulations and secure our national wealth,” Uwa stated.
Illegal mining has been a persistent challenge in Nigeria, particularly in resource-rich states like Taraba.
The region is known for its mineral deposits, which include gemstones and other valuable natural resources.
However, these resources have often been exploited by illegal miners, including foreign nationals, leading to environmental degradation and economic losses.
In recent years, the Nigerian government has intensified efforts to combat illegal mining.
President Bola Tinubu’s administration has introduced stricter measures to regulate the mining sector and enhance surveillance of mineral-rich areas.
Despite these efforts, illegal mining remains a lucrative business for smugglers and foreign interests who exploit loopholes in enforcement.
General Uwa praised the people of Taraba State for their cooperation and urged them to continue reporting suspicious activities.
“Together, we can foster a safer and more sustainable environment in Taraba State and beyond,” he said.
The Nigerian Army has been at the forefront of tackling crimes related to illegal mining, especially in regions with significant mineral deposits.
In October 2023, troops in Zamfara State arrested 15 illegal miners, including several foreign nationals, during a similar operation.
These operations underscore the growing role of security forces in protecting Nigeria’s mineral wealth.
Environmental activists have also raised concerns about the impact of illegal mining on local communities.
In Taraba, unregulated mining has led to deforestation, loss of arable land, and pollution of water sources, affecting the livelihoods of residents.
Captain Olubodunde assured the public that the army remains committed to safeguarding national resources.
“The Nigerian Army will not relent in its efforts to protect our environment and ensure compliance with the law,” he stated.
