Akwa Ibom police warn illegal miners to stay off state
By Emmanuel Ntekim
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a crackdown on illegal mining. The move comes days after 37 suspected illegal miners arrested by Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel in Niger State died in detention.
In a statement issued on 27th September, the Command’s spokesperson, Timfon John, warned companies, syndicates and individuals involved in the unlawful extraction, processing or transportation of minerals to desist or face prosecution.
The police said the operation follows intelligence reports of suspected unauthorised mining and excavation in parts of the state, raising concerns over environmental degradation, economic sabotage and public safety.
The Commissioner of Police (CP), Baba Mohammed Azare, has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, tactical teams and intelligence formations to step up surveillance and enforcement around suspected sites.
They are to identify unauthorised sites, profile persons and organisations linked to them, monitor the movement of mining equipment and minerals, and investigate individuals reasonably suspected of operating outside the law.
According to the police, illegal mining deprives government and communities of revenue and can destroy farmlands, pollute water sources and leave unsafe excavation sites.
The Command also said unregulated sites could provide cover for other crimes, including trafficking, illegal possession of dangerous weapons and the concealment of criminal proceeds.
Azare directed officers to act professionally and strictly within the law, and not to disrupt duly licensed operators.
He said the operation does not target legitimate businesses, but that those operating illegally will be investigated and, where evidence exists, prosecuted.
Traditional rulers, community and youth leaders, landowners and residents were urged to verify the identities, licences and approvals of anyone seeking access to community land for mining.
They were also asked to report unusual excavation, movement of heavy equipment, suspicious transportation of minerals and the sudden appearance of mining camps.
The Command promised to treat credible information confidentially and cautioned residents against confronting suspected miners.
The state government has also acted. It has set up a task force, and the Commissioner of Environment, Nsikak Ekong, said many illegal sites have been shut down.
On 28th September, police said operatives raided suspected sites in Okorutip, Atia and Ndito Ekaiba in Ibeno Local Government Area, intercepting a large consignment of titanium ore.
