Troops of the Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, NASEME, have arrested 58 suspected illegal miners in Edo State. The operation, which took place on March 28, 2026, was conducted by troops on patrol in the Ososo area of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. According to Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the suspects were arrested without resistance.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining activities in Edo State and its environs. The suspects have been handed over to the Okpella Police Division for further action. The arrest was made possible by credible intelligence gathered by the troops.
The operation was conducted on March 28, 2026, at about 1:00 pm in the Ososo area of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. The suspects were allegedly arrested at an illegal gold mining site. The operation is part of the ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining activities in Edo State.
The arrest of 58 suspected illegal miners in Edo State highlights the need for more effective measures to curb the scourge of illegal mining in the state. Captain Kennedy Anyanwu's efforts to curb this activity demonstrate a commitment to enforcing the law. However, the question remains: will this action translate into tangible benefits for the local communities affected by these operations? The arrest of the suspects is a significant step, but it is essential to ensure that those responsible for these activities are brought to justice and that the communities are protected from the environmental and economic impacts of these operations.
