Police Arrest 21 Illegal Miners in Zamfara State Joint Operation
The Zamfara State Police Command arrested 21 illegal miners in Zurmi and Maradun local government areas. The operation, which took place on January 31, 2026, involved a joint effort comprising the Anti-Illegal Mine Unit, Tactical Unit, and Bomb Disposal Unit.
The operation also included personnel from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. The arrested suspects are currently under investigation by the task force on illegal mining.
The region has been plagued by illegal mining activities, contributing to insecurity and banditry. The Federal Government recently lifted a five-year ban on mining activities in the state to revive the economy.
The decision to lift the ban was based on improved security assessments by President Bola Tinubu's National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alak.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from Punch Newspapers. Read the original report below.
Read full article
Continue on Punch Newspapers
Get the week in one email
Top stories, NPFL results, the naira — every Friday morning. Free, one email a week.
Related Stories
Police Arrest 21 Suspects Over Illegal Mining in Zamfara State
EFCC Arrests 10 Illegal Miners in Kwara State for Unlawful Mining Activities
Illegal Miners Kill Officer, Burn Vehicle in Niger Attack
Foreign Workers Kidnapped at Zamfara Gold Mine
Security Operatives Rescue 20 Abducted Villagers in Zamfara State
Five Foreign Nationals Abducted in Zamfara Mining Area
Get Plus234Feed on messaging apps
Same headlines, delivered where you already scroll.
