By Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a fresh offensive against illegal mining activities across the state, directing its operational and intelligence units to identify and dismantle unauthorised mining operations and the criminal networks behind them.
The Command, in a statement issued on Sunday by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the renewed operation followed intelligence reports pointing to suspected illegal mining and excavation activities in parts of the state.
According to the Police, the activities pose concerns not only to the state’s natural resources but also to environmental safety, public security and the economic interests of communities and government.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has consequently ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, tactical teams and intelligence formations to intensify surveillance and intelligence gathering around suspected mining locations.
The operation will involve identifying unauthorised mining sites, profiling individuals and organisations linked to such activities, monitoring the movement of mining equipment and mineral resources, as well as investigating persons reasonably suspected of operating outside the law.
CP Azare warned that the Command would not allow Akwa Ibom to become a safe haven for illegal miners or criminal networks seeking to exploit the state’s natural resources for personal gain.
He noted that illegal mining could result in the destruction of farmlands, environmental pollution, erosion, contamination of water sources and dangerous excavation sites capable of putting residents at risk.
The Police Commissioner also raised concerns that poorly regulated mining locations could potentially provide cover for other criminal activities, including the movement of suspicious persons, trafficking, unlawful possession of dangerous weapons and concealment of criminal proceeds.
To address the situation, the Command said it would adopt a coordinated approach in collaboration with relevant federal and state agencies responsible for mining regulation, environmental protection and other related matters.
The Commissioner, however, directed officers participating in the operation to maintain professionalism and ensure that enforcement activities are conducted strictly within the confines of the law.
He stressed that the crackdown was not targeted at legitimate mining businesses, assuring individuals and companies operating with valid licences and approvals that they had nothing to fear.
But those found mining without the required authorisation, as well as individuals or organisations allegedly aiding, financing, sponsoring, concealing or providing logistical support for illegal mining operations, will be investigated and prosecuted where sufficient evidence is established.
The Police Command has also appealed to traditional rulers, village heads, community leaders, youth organisations, landowners and residents to exercise caution before granting access to community lands for mining or excavation activities.
Communities have been advised to verify the identities, licences and approvals of individuals or companies seeking to undertake mining operations in their areas.
The Command further urged residents to report unusual excavation activities, the movement of heavy-duty mining equipment, suspicious transportation of mineral resources and the sudden emergence of mining camps in areas where such operations were previously unknown.
CP Azare assured members of the public that credible information supplied to the Police would be handled with appropriate confidentiality.
He equally cautioned residents against confronting suspected illegal miners themselves or taking the law into their hands, urging them instead to report suspicious activities to the Police and other relevant regulatory authorities.
The Command said its intelligence-led operations would continue until illegal mining locations and unlawful networks are identified and appropriate legal action taken against those responsible.
CP Azare reiterated that the protection of lives, property, natural resources and the economic interests of Akwa Ibom remains a priority of the Command.
He therefore called for the cooperation of security agencies, regulatory bodies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents in the fight against illegal mining.
“Akwa Ibom State will not be turned into a safe haven for illegal miners. Anyone who chooses to exploit the natural resources of the State outside the law should be prepared to face the consequences,” the Commissioner warned.
The Command said it remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring that persons involved in activities capable of threatening the security, environment and economic wellbeing of the state are held accountable.
About The Author
