Four persons accused of illegal mining activities as well as a suspected dealer have been arrested in communities in Minna, Niger State capital.
LEADERSHIP reports that the Niger State government, in conjunction with Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has strengthened surveillance in various illegal mining sites in the state, leading to several arrests in recent weeks.
According to the Information Officer, Ministry for Mineral Resources, Dibie Maureen, the suspects were arrested during an operation at mining sites around the 3 Arm Zone along Western Bypass and Caterigwari Mechanic Village, all in Minna.
Dibie added that the operation was led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Yunusa Nahauni.
Details later…