In a major crackdown on illegal mining activities, the Oyo State Government announced the arrest of 32 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, on Monday, May 13th, 2024.
The arrests took place at the Sooro market in Kishi, Irepo Local Government Area, following a critical security stakeholders’ meeting held at the Deputy Governor’s Office in Ibadan.
This action comes after a tense situation arose over the weekend. During a clearance operation on Sunday, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal ordered the immediate closure of the Sooro market.
He directed the evacuation of all illegal structures and shanties built around the market area, believed to be associated with the illegal mining activity.
Colonel James Oladipo Ajibola, Director-General of Oyo State’s Operation Burst, a security task force, explained the successful operation.
He credited collaboration between traditional leaders, specifically the Iba (king) of Kishi, Oba Mashoud Lawal, and the joint security task force for restoring peace and order in the area.
“Approximately 32 illegal miners,” Ajibola said, “including two Chinese migrants, were apprehended at the Kishi-Sooro market. They are currently under investigation.”
The Oyo State Government’s stance on illegal mining activities was further emphasized by Seyi Makinde’s Executive Assistant on Security, retired CP Sunday Odukoya.
He addressed journalists with a strong warning: the government will not tolerate any involvement in illegal mining within the state’s borders.
Odukoya urged local residents to refrain from colluding with these illegal miners.
He stressed the government’s resolve to take decisive action against anyone found participating in such activities.
“We just concluded an intensive meeting regarding the security situation in Oke-Ogun, particularly the illegal mining happening in Sooro, Irepo Local Government,” Odukoya explained.
“The government has made its position clear: everyone has a responsibility to ensure peace and security in the region.”
Odukoya further highlighted the commitment of the Iba of Kishi to ensure the area is free from criminal activity.
He reassured the public that the market closure would remain in effect until further notice from Governor Seyi Makinde.
This decisive action by the Oyo State Government sends a clear message that they will not tolerate illegal mining activities and are working to restore peace and order in the affected region.
