In a notable shift from forceful enforcement, Nigeria’s Mining Marshals have peacefully shut down an illegal tin mining site in Damau, located in Kaduna State’s Kubau Local Government Area, through community engagement and diplomacy.
The operation targeted a tin-rich site legally owned by Trobell Minerals Limited, which unauthorised miners had overrun for several months. Residents reported that the illicit mining activity had not only caused environmental damage and economic setbacks but also contributed to rising insecurity in the area.
Rather than resort to force, the Mining Marshals engaged community leaders and gained local support before moving in. The peaceful resolution allowed the illegal miners to vacate the site without conflict, under the supervision of security operatives.
According to a statement issued on Monday by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, this collaborative approach marked a significant departure from past confrontational interventions and proved highly effective.
A community leader praised the method, stating, “This diplomatic approach is commendable. The activities of the dislodged illegal miners posed a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and investment. This intervention brings long-awaited relief.”
Marking the first anniversary of the Mining Marshals, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to further equipping the squad to carry out its duties. “The reward for hard work is more work,” he said, promising enhanced resources and support for future operations.
Dr. Alake also urged communities nationwide to actively cooperate with the marshals, highlighting the Kaduna intervention as a potential model for tackling illegal mining through a mix of enforcement and diplomacy.
“The operation in Damau demonstrates how local buy-in and leadership support can produce positive outcomes. Illegal mining and insecurity continue to plague our mining sector, but with joint efforts, we can restore investor confidence and promote sustainable development,” the minister said.
