Kaduna Community Demands Probe into Gold Mining Violence

Residents of the Randagi community in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State have requested an investigation from the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff regarding violence at an artisanal gold mining site. This incident led to the deaths of three individuals and left ten others hospitalized.

Muktar Shehu Shagari, a community leader representing the Randagi Development Association, reported that security personnel, including soldiers, police officers, and members of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVIS), arrived at the site in a convoy to evacuate gold-bearing stones mined by local laborers. Attempts by traditional leaders, including the district head, to engage with the security team were unsuccessful.

Following protests from residents, security personnel reportedly dispersed the crowd using tear gas and allegedly fired live ammunition. Shagari praised Governor Uba Sani for his intervention and assurance of a thorough investigation.

He urged relevant authorities to ensure justice for the community. The violence has raised concerns about mining regulation and security operations in the area.