Residents of Randagi community in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State have appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff and other relevant authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into the deadly violence that erupted at an artisanal gold mining site in the area. The call follows a security operation last month that reportedly left at least three people dead and several others injured, with differing accounts emerging over what transpired.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Muktar Shehu Shagari alleged that soldiers, police officers and members of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVIS) arrived at the mining site in a convoy to remove stockpiles of gold-bearing stones extracted by local miners. He claimed traditional rulers, including the district head, attempted to engage the security team to understand the purpose of the operation but were unsuccessful. According to him, protests by residents were met with tear gas before live ammunition was allegedly fired, resulting in fatalities and injuries. He further alleged that relatives transporting the dead and injured were intercepted and prevented from continuing their journey.

Despite the tragedy, the community commended Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for meeting with local leaders and assuring them that the incident would be thoroughly investigated. Residents also urged the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff, the leadership of KADVIS and civil society organisations to ensure a transparent inquiry capable of identifying those responsible and delivering justice to affected families. As of the latest reports, the Nigerian Army, the Kaduna State Police Command and other agencies mentioned in the allegations had not publicly responded to the specific claims.

The incident has renewed concerns over the management of artisanal mining activities in Birnin Gwari, where gold extraction remains a major source of livelihood but has also generated disputes over security, regulation and resource control. Community members say the latest violence underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight, accountability and lawful management of mining operations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.