Kogi State Government Links Mining to Rising Crime Rates

The Kogi State Government has linked more than 80% of crimes in the state to mining activities, according to Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo. Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Fanwo noted that areas with high criminal activity often coincide with mining sites.

He clarified that while mining is not solely responsible for all crime, it significantly contributes to the insecurity in Kogi State. Recently, security operatives arrested over 30 suspected illegal miners found with dangerous weapons, including AK-47 rifles.

Fanwo questioned the necessity of such firearms for mining activities, suggesting that illegal miners are exacerbating insecurity. He also mentioned that joint security forces have neutralized over six terrorist camps in the state, with many of the deceased being Nigerians.

The government is enhancing surveillance and has deployed over 500 trained forest guards to monitor forests and prevent criminal hideouts. Additionally, Kogi State is collaborating with neighboring states to curb cross-border criminal activities.