Niger State government has arrested Two Foreign Nationals for their involvement on unauthorised mining activities in violation of established regulatory frameworks.

Commissioner for Mineral Resources,Niger State,Mohammad Qasim Danjuma,made this known when he carried out a strategic regulatory inspection at Zuzungi mining site,in Katcha local council of the state, leading to decisive enforcement action against illegal mining operations in the area.

According to the statement issued to newsmen in Minna by the spokesperson of the ministry,Dibie Maureen”.This action reflects the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to responsible resource management, institutional accountability, and the creation of a safe, transparent, and investment friendly mining.

Qasim emphasized that the state government had zero-tolerance policy on illegal mining,stressing that all mining operators must strictly comply with licensing requirements,approved guidelines, as well as environmental regulations.

The Commissioner explained that safeguarding host communities, preserving the environment,and upholding the rule of law,remain top priorities of the State’s mining policy.

The statement disclosed that the two suspects were immediately handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation and necessary legal action in line with existing laws.

The inspection is part of the Ministry’s intensified efforts to enforce compliance,uphold regulatory standards, and protect the State’s mineral resources from unlawful exploitation, adding that
it’s also aligns with the vision of Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago, and the broader objectives of the New Niger Agenda”.It added.

The Commissioner,alongside the Permanent Secretary,as well as the Directors of the Ministry,and relevant security agencies visited the site.