Plateau Government Cracks Down on Illegal Mining, Arrests Over 100 in Jos
The Plateau State Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development has arrested more than 100 illegal miners in Jos, the state capital, in a bid to address environmental degradation and safeguard the region’s natural resources.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Yabilsu Dogo, confirmed the arrests, noting that the crackdown was conducted in collaboration with the police to tackle the growing issue of illegal mining.
Over 100 Illegal Miners Arrested in Plateau as State Intensifies Fight Against Environmental Degradation
Dogo highlighted the severe environmental risks posed by unregulated mining, including land degradation, soil erosion, and an increased likelihood of land subsidence and sinkholes. He emphasized that illegal mining activities undermine the stability of the ground, making it dangerous for buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
“Over time, this leads to increased incidents of land subsidence and sinkholes, making the ground unstable,” Dogo said. He pointed to the collapse of buildings in Jos last year, attributing it to the reckless digging and unregulated activities of illegal miners, which weaken the structural integrity of land.
Plateau State Targets Illegal Mining, Warns of Sinkholes and Building Collapses
The Permanent Secretary further warned of the safety risks illegal mining poses to the miners themselves, noting that many had died when they became trapped in the deep pits and tunnels they dug. He added that the state loses significant revenue due to the unregulated extraction of minerals.
In response, the Plateau State government has ramped up enforcement efforts to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices. Dogo mentioned that the government is also focusing on public education, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal mining and offering alternative livelihoods to those engaged in the practice.
“Our strategy involves not only enforcement but also educating the public on safe mining practices and offering viable alternatives to the illegal miners,” Dogo said.
