The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have reiterated their commitment to combating illegal mining activities across the country.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, Assistant Commandant John Attah, Commander of the Mining Marshals, highlighted the corps’ determination to dismantle illicit operations and the conspiracies surrounding them.
According to a statement by CSC Babawale Afolabi, the National Public Relations Officer of NSCDC Headquarters, the Mining Marshals have implemented strategic measures to curb illegal activities following the establishment of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Natural Resource Protection. This committee oversees the safeguarding of mines, forests, coastal areas, and other national resources.
Attah commended the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Solid Minerals and the NSCDC, which led to the launch of the Specialized Mining Marshals by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, on March 21, 2024. He revealed that over 2,509 special forces have been trained and deployed across the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Expressing appreciation for the leadership of NSCDC Commandant General Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Attah praised the improved training conditions that have equipped officers with the necessary skills to perform their duties professionally and patriotically.
He stated that the Mining Marshal Squad has successfully conducted operations to dismantle illegal mining sites, arrest criminal elements, and execute both covert and overt clearance missions. These efforts have strengthened security in mining areas, ensured compliance with legal frameworks, and provided protection for legitimate mining operators.
“With the encouragement and strategies put in place by the Commandant General, our determination has been further reinforced. The squad remains resolute in its mission to eradicate illegal mining activities and dismantle criminal cartels without compromise,” Attah declared.
