Security operatives have arrested 14 suspected illegal miners in Kogi State as authorities intensify efforts to curb illegal mining and its alleged links to insecurity in the state.

The State Security Adviser, retired Navy Commander Jerry Omodara, disclosed this while parading the suspects in Lokoja.

Omodara said eight of the suspects were arrested last week, while six others were apprehended on Monday in a separate operation.

Eight suspects handed over for prosecution

According to the security adviser, the eight suspects arrested during the earlier operation had been handed over to the Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for prosecution.

The arrests followed ongoing efforts by security agencies to tackle activities considered capable of threatening public safety and security in the state.

Omodara commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade for their contribution to protecting lives and property across Kogi State.

Security adviser warns transporters, traditional rulers

Omodara also warned transport operators against conveying passengers or cargo involved in the movement of contraband.

He said any vehicle found transporting such items would be confiscated.

The security adviser further cautioned traditional rulers against harbouring illegal miners in their communities, warning that the state government would not tolerate activities capable of undermining security.

He described illegal mining as a major driver of insecurity and said the state’s security architecture would continue to be strengthened to protect residents.

NSCDC promises prosecution

The Kogi State Commandant of the NSCDC, Olumide Aletan, assured that the newly arrested suspects would undergo thorough investigation before being prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The latest arrests form part of wider efforts by the state government and security agencies to restrict unauthorised mining and protect Kogi’s mineral resources.

The suspects remain in custody while investigations continue. The allegations against them have not been established by a court.