Our Reporter

Niger State Governor Sani Bello has ordered the immediate suspension of all mining activities in six areas of the state over continued bandit attacks.

This was contained in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Ahmed Matane in Minna on Thursday.

He listed the areas affected to include: Gurmana in Shiroro Local Government Area, Anguwan Kampani, M.I. Wushishi Housing Estate, College of Education, Army Barracks and Lapan-Gwari in Chanchaga Local Government Area of the state.

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Matane said the decision become necessary following security, health and environmental hazards, as well as illicit drug peddling in the areas.

He stated that reports had established a strong connection between the activities of bandits, prostitutes, criminal gangs and illegal miners, with each mutually re-enforcing the other.

Matane warned that any mining operator caught engaging in mining activities in the areas would face the full wrath of the law.