The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has ordered an intensified crackdown on illegal mining operations across the state, warning operators, sponsors and others providing support for unlawful extraction of mineral resources that they risk prosecution.
The directive followed intelligence reports indicating the existence of unauthorised mining and excavation activities in parts of the state, raising concerns over environmental degradation, economic losses and possible security threats.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, tactical teams and intelligence units to step up surveillance and operations around suspected illegal mining locations.
The police said the operation would involve identifying unauthorised mining sites, profiling individuals and organisations linked to them, monitoring the movement of mining equipment and mineral resources, and investigating suspected violations of the law.
Azare warned that the command would not allow the state to become a haven for illegal miners or criminal networks seeking to exploit its natural resources.
He said unlawful mining could result in the destruction of farmlands, pollution, erosion, contamination of water sources and unsafe excavation sites, while also depriving government and communities of legitimate economic benefits.
The police commissioner further raised concerns that unregulated mining locations could be used as cover for other criminal activities, including trafficking, movement of suspicious persons, illegal possession of dangerous weapons and concealment of criminal proceeds.
The command said it would work with relevant federal and state agencies responsible for mining regulation and environmental protection to ensure coordinated enforcement.
Azare, however, directed officers involved in the operation to act professionally and within the law, stressing that legitimate mining businesses with valid licences and approvals would not be targeted.
He said persons found mining without authorisation, as well as those who finance, sponsor, conceal or provide logistical support for illegal operations, would be investigated and prosecuted where sufficient evidence is established.
The police also warned traditional rulers, community leaders, landowners and residents to verify the identities and operating licences of individuals or companies seeking access to land for mining or excavation.
Communities were urged to report suspicious excavation activities, unusual movement of heavy-duty mining equipment, transportation of mineral resources and the sudden establishment of mining camps to the police or relevant regulatory authorities.
The command advised residents not to confront suspected illegal miners, assuring that credible information supplied to the police would be treated confidentially.
Azare said the command would continue intelligence-led operations to identify illegal mining sites, dismantle unlawful networks and bring offenders to justice.
“Akwa Ibom State will not be turned into a safe haven for illegal miners. Anyone who chooses to exploit the natural resources of the State outside the law should be prepared to face the consequences,” he warned.
