Police arrested seven suspected illegal miners in Minna on Tuesday evening. The operation happened around 6:30 p.m. behind the Bilkebeb Shango area.
Commissioner for Mineral Resources Mohammed Qasim Danjuma led the enforcement crackdown. Officers discovered illegal mining taking place within a residential community.
Nine motorcycles used in the operations were seized during the raid. Authorities believe the bikes were crucial to the illegal mining network.
All suspects and the confiscated motorcycles went to the Niger State NSCDC command. Officials there will handle further investigation and prosecution.
Danjuma travelled with the Ministry's Director of Administration, AGM Zuma, and NSCDC operational personnel. He called illegal mining in residential areas a major public danger.
The crackdown aligns with Governor Mohammed Umar Bago's New Niger Agenda. That policy targets mining sector reform and stricter regulation statewide.
According to the commissioner, illegal miners face serious legal consequences. "Anyone caught will face the full weight of the law," he warned.
Government priorities include protecting residents and safeguarding natural resources, Danjuma noted. Officials also want to boost internally generated revenue through legitimate mining.
Danjuma told reporters his ministry won't slow down enforcement efforts. "We'll continue monitoring and operating across mining communities," he stated, adding that the focus remains on restoring order and encouraging responsible mining practices throughout Niger State.
