Oyo State Mineral Development Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, have improved on its security architecture along Ibadan Circular Road to curb the activities of the illegal mining operators in Oluyole Local Government Area.
The Director General, Oyo State Mineral Development Agency, Okunrinjeje Abiodun Oni, who confirmed the development at the Economic and Security Summit held in Oluyole local government said, the move was a decisive effort to combat illegal mining activities that have proliferated along the Ibadan Circular Road.
He disclosed that the crackdown was a response to growing concerns over environmental degradation, safety hazards, and revenue losses associated with these illicit activities.
The operation, which was carried out last earlier in the week, involved coordinated raids across several identified hotspots where illegal miners had been operating. The Agency officials, supported by local law enforcement, confiscated heavy mining equipment.
During the operation, officials discovered numerous deep pits, some reaching depths of six meters, along with sieves used for washing and panning mineral samples.
Although the miners fled the scene through nearby bush and stream paths, six motorcycles parked at the site were confiscated for further investigation.
In his words: “Our primary goal is to protect our natural resources and ensure that mining activities are conducted responsibly and legally.
“We are committed to eradicating these illegal operations and restoring order in the mining sector and in doing these things we are going to be deepening collaboration and synergy with stakeholders to block all illegal channels of operation by these unscrupulous elements.”
Residents had earlier reported that the illegal mining operations had been ongoing since the road’s opening, with some miners reportedly using tipper trucks to transport materials from the site.
A thorough inspection revealed traces of tourmaline and beryl, both valuable gemstones, indicating the site’s significant mineral potential.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the illegal activities and the individuals involved, Oni assured. (Tribune)