Taskforce Raids Illegal Gold Site in Bali, Arrests Two, Recovers Equipment

The Taraba State Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce has shut down a notorious gold mining site in Mayo Kam and Gantu villages in Bali Local Government Area, arresting two suspects and recovering several mining equipment.

The operation, led by SP Emmanuel Jamu, followed weeks of intelligence gathering on the activities of an illegal mining syndicate operating in the area.

Sources said the taskforce navigated difficult terrain to access the remote mining camp, but discovered that the site had been deserted, with suspected miners fleeing into nearby forests on sighting security operatives.

Despite the escape of several suspects, the taskforce arrested two individuals who were apprehended while attempting to flee the scene.

Items recovered during the raid include pumping machines, digging equipment, generators, and other materials used for processing gold.

Speaking after the operation, Jamu said the raid was part of ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal mining networks across the state, warning that those involved would not escape justice.

He said the taskforce would sustain its operations until all illegal mining activities are eliminated, stressing that those who fled would eventually be apprehended.

The taskforce leader also called on traditional rulers and community leaders to support security agencies with credible information that would aid the arrest of suspects still at large.

The Taraba State Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the state’s mineral resources and enforcing a strict ban on illegal mining activities.

The two suspects are currently in custody, while further operations are expected to continue in other identified high-risk locations across the state.