32 illegal miners, including two Chinese nationals, over activities of illegal mining at Sooro Market in Kishi, Irepo Local Government Area of Oyo State.
News About Nigeria reports that the arrest was confirmed by the Oyo State Government on Monday.
The state Director-General of Operation Burst, Col. James Oladipo Ajibola, disclosed this shortly after a critical security stakeholders’ meeting held at the Deputy Governor’s Office, Agodi, in Ibadan, the state capital.
The Deputy Governor of the State, Bayo Lawal, had ordered the closure of the market and the immediate evacuation of all illegal structures and shanties built across the market and the precious stones during a clearance operation against the illegal miners on Sunday.
Ajibola attributed the success of the operation to the collaborative efforts of traditional leaders and the joint security task force, which led to the restoration of peace and order in the area.
He said, “About 32 illegal miners, including two Chinese migrants, were arrested at the Kishi-Sooro market and are currently undergoing investigation at the moment.”
Prior to the arrests, the state government had already announced the closure of the market due to the activities of illegal miners.
The Executive Assistant to State Governor, Seyi Makinde on Security, retired CP Sunday Odukoya, cautioned against colluding with illegal miners, stating that the government was prepared to deal decisively with anyone involved in such activities.
He warned that the market would remain closed until further directives were given by the state governor, Seyi Makinde.
Odukoya also stated that the Kabiesi, Iba of Kishi, Oba Mashoud Lawal, has assured that criminal activities within the area will be eradicated.
