A joint tax force comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Cross River State Government has uncovered illicit mining sites.

[ad]

The team, spearheaded by the Federal Mines Officer overseeing the state, the state Commissioner of Minerals Resources, and Security personnel, on Wednesday, unearthed the illegal activities by certain miners while conducting a comprehensive monitoring operation across various mining sites.

The illegal miners were caught exploiting and degrading mineral reserves in several communities.

Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Mr Efiom Ekaha, said the governor had earlier instructed a crackdown on illegal mining within the state.

He disclosed that the recent enforcement action led to the arrest of persons engaged in illegal mining activities.

READ ALSO: Tension as joint security forces parade Ibadan

The commissioner noted that the state government vowed to unravel any form of illegal mining to prevent further harm to the ecosystem and surrounding areas.

The task force also inspected a vandalized artisanal mineral processing plant, part of the federal government’s economic sustainable plan post-COVID-19 intervention project, established two years ago in Okuku, Yala LGA.

Ekaha expressed dismay at the damage inflicted on the facility, noting its capacity to empower numerous youths if operational.

[ad]