Zamfara Governor Declares Ban On Illegal Mining, Authorizing Shoot-On-Sight Action Against Offenders
On Saturday, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State issued a ban on illegal mining activities within the state and directed law enforcement authorities to take stringent measures against offenders.
Illegal mining in Zamfara has, over the years, been a catalyst for banditry and other criminal acts.
Governor Lawal, as communicated by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, emphasized the need to put an end to this destructive practice and implement measures to safeguard the safety and welfare of the state’s residents.
He made it clear that security personnel have been given explicit orders to take decisive action, including the use of lethal force if necessary, against individuals involved in illegal mining.
He stated, “This directive is imperative to ensure the safety and security of Zamfara’s law-abiding citizens and to deter potential wrongdoers from engaging in such illicit activities.”
“It is also an immediate response to enable the State Government to exercise full control over its resources and to curb activities that pose threats to the lives and property of the people.”
Illegal mining has undeniably contributed significantly to the pervasive issue of banditry that has plagued Zamfara State. Swift and decisive action is essential to combat this problem and restore peace and security to our communities.”
In a related incident, bandits attacked Sabon Gida village in Bungudu local government area of the State in the early hours of Friday, abducting numerous students from Federal University Gusau. As of now, only six of the kidnapped victims have been rescued by troops of Operation Hadarin Daji
