Army arrest nine suspected illegal miners, recover precious stones in Taraba
Jethro Yerga, Jalingo
Troop of 6 Brigade, Nigeria Army, deployed at Garba Chede checkpoint in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State, have apprehended a group of illegal miners and seized suspected precious stones being transported out of the area.
A statement by the Acting Assistant Director and spokeman, 6 Brigade Army Public Relations, Capt Olubodunde Oni, the troop under an operation, code-named Operation Golden Peace, intercepted the suspects following credible intelligence
He explained that, acting on credible intelligence, vigilant troops on 17 December intercepted a truck with a foreign registration number B 0515 VV, which was found to be concealing illegally mined products.
“The suspected precious stones were hidden in sack bags covered with dry grasses in a bid to evade detection.
“The driver of the truck, identified as Abubakar Suleiman, along with eight other occupants, were immediately taken into custody.
“Following standard procedures, they were handed over to the Taraba State Special Taskforce Committee on Environmental Protection, Public Safety, and Prohibition of Deforestation for further investigation and prosecution”. He added.
Speaking on the arrest, the Commander 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa assured that the Brigade would remain resolute in supporting civil authorities to enforce environmental regulations and ensure the safety of lives and property.
He commended the good people of Taraba State for their continued support and urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to security agencies for prompt action. “Together, we can foster a safer and more sustainable environment in Taraba State and beyond.” The commandant stated.
