The Anti-Illegal Mining Task Force in Taraba State has arrested fourteen suspected illegal miners as part of ongoing efforts to combat unauthorized mining activities across the state.

According to the Task Force Commander, SP Jamu Emmanuel Lyon, the suspects were apprehended following credible intelligence while on their way to an illegal mining site within Taraba State.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are natives of Bauchi, Gombe, and Zamfara states who allegedly travelled to Taraba to engage in illegal mining operations without the required authorization.

SP Jamu disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to the Taraba State Police Command for further investigation before being returned to their respective states of origin.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Anti-Illegal Mining Task Force to safeguarding Taraba’s mineral resources and eliminating illegal mining activities across the state.

> “We are here to send a clear message. They can run today, but they cannot run forever. They will face the full weight of the law,” SP Jamu stated.

The commander also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that will help protect the state’s natural resources and ensure that those engaged in illegal mining are brought to justice.