Cross River State Task Force on Anti-illegal Mining has discovered an illegal mining site at Iyamitet community forest, Obubra local government area.
The chairman of the task force, Prince Paul Effiong, disclosed this to LEADERSHIP via a telephone conversation yesterday in Calabar.
He said the illegal mining site was discovered during a trip to the Obubra forest at the Iyamitet community.
Effiong said upon arrival at the site, the individuals involved in the activity took to their heels and abandoned some of their tools and foodstuffs.
The chairman called on the locals not to keep quiet whenever they discover a mining operation so that the task force can swing into action.
He promised to engage communities to raise awareness on the dangers of illegal mining and the importance of environmental conservation.
“This can help in garnering support for the effort of the taskforce and encouraging communities to report illegal activities.
“Once you report this to us, we will ensure that immediate steps are taken to restore and rehabilitate the affected areas,” he said.
Effiong enumerated the damage caused in communities where illegal mining operations occur, including environmental degradation, water pollution, infrastructural damage and potential health hazards.
He stated, “The state’s economy is suffering due to the loss of revenue from unregulated mining activities.”
