The Plateau State Government has intensified its campaign against illegal mining activities in Jos, confiscating mining equipment and warning operators to immediately halt unlawful operations.
The enforcement action was carried out by a joint task team made up of officials from the state government and the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, who inspected several locations within the state capital where unregulated mining activities have been reported.
Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom, raised concerns about the growing environmental damage caused by illegal miners across the state. Gwom, who was represented during the operation by Samuel Jaryum, Director of Exploration and Gemological Services in the ministry, said the government remains worried about the negative impact of the activities on communities.
According to him, the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang is committed to protecting lives, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring sustainable development in the state.
Gwom noted that illegal mining has contributed to serious problems, including land degradation and safety hazards. He also expressed concern about the rising number of fatalities linked to unregulated mining sites.
“The ministry remains worried about the increasing number of deaths associated with illegal mining operations, as well as the growing number of out-of-school children in communities where such activities are widespread,” he said.
During the operation, the joint task team visited multiple locations identified as hotspots for illegal mining. These included Zawan, Rayfield Resort, Lamingo Dam, and the Yingi Reserved areas, where authorities discovered ongoing mining activities being carried out without proper authorization.
Several items used for mining were seized at the sites, including generator-powered pumping machines, pickaxes, and other related tools.
Officials also strongly condemned mining activities taking place within residential neighbourhoods and in environmentally sensitive locations. Particular concern was raised over operations close to Lamingo Dam, where authorities warned that such activities pose significant environmental and safety risks.
The government urged individuals interested in mining to regularise their activities by registering with the appropriate authorities, obtaining the required licences, and adhering to approved environmental and operational standards.
