Cracks Down on Illegal Mining: Mobile Court Secures Conviction as Task Force Enforces “Zero Mining” Order

Taraba State intensified its sweeping crackdown on illegal mining activities on Monday, as a Mobile Court secured the conviction of a suspect for the unlawful transportation of solid minerals, while a state task force simultaneously shut down mining operations across multiple local government areas.

The enforcement action began with the arrest of a driver conveying illegally extracted solid minerals in a Sharon vehicle bearing registration number WKR 176 BB. The arrest was carried out during a routine operation enforcing Executive Order No. 5 of 2023 on Environmental Protection, Public Safety and the Prohibition of Deforestation.

The suspect was promptly arraigned before the Taraba Mobile Court, where he was summarily prosecuted and convicted in accordance with the provisions of the Executive Order. Following the ruling, both the minerals and the vehicle used in transporting them were confiscated and impounded by authorities.

The court stated that the swift conviction and seizure were deliberate measures aimed at deterring illegal mining activities and reinforcing the government’s resolve to protect the environment, safeguard public safety, and enforce compliance with existing laws.

In a parallel operation, the state government escalated its enforcement drive as the Anti-Illegal Mining Squad, led by SP Jamu Emmanuel, carried out a coordinated shutdown of mining sites across Lau, Yorro, and Zing Local Government Areas.

The early morning operation, conducted under the directive of Governor Agbu Kefas, saw security personnel and task force officials comb through both active and abandoned mining locations, enforcing a strict “zero mining” order across the affected areas.

Addressing journalists during the exercise, SP Emmanuel reiterated the administration’s uncompromising position, stating that no mining activity would be tolerated anywhere within the designated zones. He warned that any operator found in violation of the directive would face immediate consequences.

The enforcement team moved systematically from site to site, issuing warnings, documenting infractions, and ensuring full compliance with the statewide suspension of mining activities. The operation drew attention from residents and operators alike, many of whom watched as authorities sealed off non-compliant locations.

Officials say the crackdown marks a decisive phase in the government’s broader effort to restructure the mining sector, which has long been plagued by illegal operations, environmental degradation, and significant revenue losses.

Governor Kefas has consistently maintained that the state will sustain the pressure until mining activities are fully regulated and aligned with lawful and sustainable practices.