Task force apprehends 10 over alleged illegal mining activities in Akwa Ibom
Nsikak Ekong, the commissioner for environment and mineral resources in Akwa Ibom, says 10 persons have been apprehended over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities in the state.
Mr Ekong, who made the disclosure in an interview with journalists in Eket on Friday, said that the suspects were apprehended at about 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
He said that the operation was conducted by a team of personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the ministry, and the Committee on Illegal Mining.
The commissioner said that the operation followed a petition from the communities reporting the presence of illegal miners
“The team visited two mining sites in the Ikot Udo Ime and Ikot Etobo communities in Nsit Ubium; they also visited another one at Ibesikpo Asutan.
“The miners are operating without a licence. Anybody doing mining activities in Akwa Ibom must register with the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources.
“As a government, we welcome investors, but they should be recognised by the laws. Miners must get approval to operate,” he said.
(NAN)
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