Randagi Community Demands Justice After Mining Violence

Residents of Randagi community in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, are seeking justice after a violent incident at an artisanal gold mining site last month, which left at least three people dead and several others injured during a security operation. Community representative Muktar Shehu Shagari reported that security personnel, including soldiers, police officers, and members of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVIS), attempted to evacuate gold-bearing stones mined by local laborers.

Traditional leaders, including the district head, were unsuccessful in engaging the security team for clarification on the operation. Following protests, security forces allegedly used tear gas and live ammunition, resulting in fatalities and injuries.

Shagari claimed that relatives transporting victims were intercepted and assaulted. The community has expressed gratitude to Governor Uba Sani for his intervention and assurance of a thorough investigation.

They are appealing to the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff, and civil society organizations for an impartial inquiry into the incident.