The Federal Government has shut down an illegal gold mining site in Osun State and arrested two suspected miners during a joint enforcement operation.
The suspects, identified as Danladi Isa and Musa Kabiru, both in their twenties, were apprehended at an illegal artisanal mining camp in Ileki-Ijesa along the Ile-Ife–Ilesa Road. Authorities say the pair are cooperating with investigators and providing information to help identify those behind the operation.
The raid was carried out by officials of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development from Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states, working alongside security agencies, following credible intelligence.
According to a statement by the minister’s media aide, Lara Owoeye-Wise, several other suspects fled into nearby bushes upon sighting the task force. Mining equipment, including motorcycles, generators, pumping machines, and mineral processing tools, were recovered at the site.
Officials also dismantled operational structures and sealed the site in line with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.
Southwest Zonal Mines Officer Ajibade Ganiyu, who led the operation, said the action is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining, protect the environment, and safeguard national resources.
Osun State Mines Officer Wasiu Adeboye warned that authorities would intensify enforcement, stressing that illegal mining would no longer be tolerated.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the crackdown reflects the government’s commitment to reforming the mining sector through stricter enforcement and improved regulation. He noted that over 300 illegal miners have been arrested nationwide, with more than 150 prosecutions underway.
The government also called on communities to support efforts by reporting illegal activities and refusing to shield offenders.
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