Federal authorities arrest two illegal miners in Osun

Federal authorities have arrested two suspected illegal miners and shut down an illicit mining camp in Osun State, marking the latest enforcement action in a nationwide crackdown on unlawful mineral exploitation. The operation, conducted on July 12, targeted illegal artisanal mining camps at Ileki-Ijesa along the Ile-Ife-Ilesa Road.

Officials from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, in collaboration with security agencies, carried out the raid after receiving credible intelligence. The two suspects, identified as Danladi Isa and Musa Kabiru, both casual laborers in their twenties, were apprehended at the site. Authorities stated the men are cooperating with investigators and providing information that could lead to the arrest of those financing the illegal operations. Several other individuals reportedly fled into nearby bushes as the enforcement team arrived.

The enforcement team confiscated a range of equipment, including two motorcycles, pumping machines, generators, mineral-washing equipment, large hose pipes, gold-trapping carpets, and cutlasses. The operational camp was dismantled and the site was sealed in accordance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.