Kogi State Government has arrested two suspected illegal gold miners during an enforcement operation at Iretuba Village in Okene Local Government Area.

The operation led by the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Abubakar Bashir Gegu, on Sunday was part of the state government’s efforts to curb illegal mining.

The suspects, identified as Abdulrahaman Nuhu and Yusuf Ramat, were apprehended at the site for allegedly mining gold unlawfully on community land. They were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for investigation and prosecution.

Speaking with journalists at the site, Gegu said the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo would not tolerate illegal mining, describing it as economic sabotage that threatens the environment and the peace of host communities.

He warned illegal miners against operating in the state, stressing that mineral resources must be legally exploited for the benefit of the people rather than looted by criminal elements.

The Village Head of Iretuba, Mallam Adams Shuaibu, commended the government for its intervention.

He expressed concern over alleged trespassing by illegal miners and land grabbers, who he said had encroached on ancestral lands in search of gold and destroyed farmlands.

Shuaibu appealed to the state government to strengthen security in the community to prevent further encroachment and damage to agricultural land.

In response, Gegu assured the community that its concerns would be communicated to the governor.

He assured that the ministry would collaborate with security agencies to protect the legitimate rights of host communities.

The commissioner also urged community leaders across Kogi State to report suspected illegal mining activities to the relevant authorities.