Taraba Task Force Arrests Illegal Miners in Four Communities

The Taraba State Task Force on Illegal Mining conducted operations across four communities, including Mayo-Kam, Garba Chide, and Kussum Mallam Ali Gora, arresting several suspected illegal miners. The chairman, Major A.M.

Ghali, reported that these individuals were handed over to a mobile court for prosecution. The task force identified eight to nine illegal mining sites, each with an estimated 200 to 400 miners.

Following enforcement efforts, areas like Daba Kusum, Daba Yerima, and Daba Mata have become largely deserted. Major Ghali noted that some arrested suspects were from various states, including Kano, Kebbi, Katsina, Zanfara, and Sokoto, as well as local indigenes.

He acknowledged challenges such as difficult terrain, which sometimes necessitated the use of motorcycles for access. Ghali also addressed a prior incident involving a collapsed mining pit, clarifying that four bodies were recovered, contrary to reports of 20 to 30 fatalities.

He urged community cooperation and expressed hope for the eventual lifting of the mining ban once areas are sanitized.