Foreigners Sponsor Attacks On Mining Sites To Carry Out Illegal Mining – FG

The federal government has disclosed that foreigners operating in the mining sector are responsible for terrorist attacks on miners across mining sites in the country.

The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, said the foreign-sponsored attacks intend to scare away the miners for illegal mining to continue.

Alake said this in a statement on Thursday while condemning the killing of 12 miners at Unguwar Magro Village of Niger State.

He assured that security agencies have commenced investigations to apprehend the attackers and their sponsors.

He said, “I assure Nigerians that security agencies are on the trail of the murderers of twelve miners shot in Unguwar Magro Village, Niger State, and they will be apprehended soon.

“No mining will occur at the attack site until investigations are complete. Security agencies are committed to ensuring that mines across the country are safe from bandits seeking to exploit mineral-rich areas through violence.

“The Mining Marshals are working with intelligence units to turn this attack into a special case, tracking the suspected bandits infiltrating Shiroro from neighboring states. Those who invade villages and kill innocents for illegal mining will face severe consequences.

“Preliminary reports indicate that non-Nigerians are funding these operations. Anyone involved will be prosecuted for economic sabotage and waging war against Nigeria.”

The Minister of Solid Minerals urged foreign embassies in the country to warn their nationals against economic sabotage of the country.

“I also urge embassies to monitor their nationals in the mining sector, as criminal activities threaten international relations,” Alake added.