JALINGO — The newly constituted Joint Task Force on Anti-Mining Operations has intensified enforcement activities against illegal mining across several communities in Taraba State, as part of efforts to protect the state’s mineral resources, safeguard lives and prevent environmental degradation.
The task force has carried out operations in Mayo Kam, Kusum, Daban Yarima and Gidansta in Bali Local Government Area, as well as Daban Faransa, targeting illegal mining activities and directing operators without the necessary authorisation to vacate mining sites.
The intensified operation followed a tragic incident at a mining site in Gidansta, Kusum Ward, Bali Local Government Area, where four people were reportedly killed.
Following the incident, the Joint Task Force visited the affected mining site to assess the situation and establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The team confirmed the fatalities during the inspection and subsequently commenced enforcement operations in the affected area.
Led by Commander Major A. M. Ghali, the task force moved across the identified mining communities as part of the state government’s wider efforts to bring mining activities under control.
During the operations, illegal miners were directed to leave the affected sites or face appropriate action in accordance with existing laws and regulations governing mining activities.
The task force said the enforcement drive is not only focused on stopping unauthorised mining but also on addressing the risks associated with poorly regulated mining activities, including loss of lives, environmental degradation and potential damage to surrounding communities.
Commander Ghali reaffirmed the commitment of the Taraba State Government to intensifying the crackdown on illegal mining activities across the state.
He stressed that Taraba’s solid mineral resources must be protected and exploited responsibly, adding that mining operators are expected to conduct their activities within the framework of the law.
According to him, the government is concerned about the safety of residents living around mining locations and will continue to take measures to prevent activities that expose communities and workers to avoidable risks.
The commander also emphasised the need to preserve the environment, particularly in areas where mining activities can result in land degradation and other ecological consequences.
The latest operation comes amid growing attention to mining activities in Taraba, a state endowed with significant deposits of various solid minerals.
The Joint Task Force is expected to sustain its operations across other mining locations in the state as authorities intensify efforts to distinguish between lawful mining operations and unauthorised activities.
The government has also reiterated the importance of collaboration among relevant security agencies, mining authorities, traditional institutions, local communities and licensed operators in tackling illegal mining.
With the continued enforcement operations, authorities are seeking to ensure that Taraba’s mineral resources are developed in a manner that protects human lives, communities, the environment and the economic interests of the state.
