Cross River taskforce cracks down on illegal miners in Akamkpa

 

The Cross River State Taskforce on illegal mining has intensified its campaign against unlawful excavation in the state with the arrest of several suspected miners in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

The suspects were picked up on Tuesday during a series of raids carried out in limestone-rich communities following persistent reports of illegal mining in the area. 

Chairman of the taskforce, Prince Paul Effiong, explained that the clampdown became inevitable as illegal operators had ignored repeated warnings issued by the government and security agencies.

“Our duty is to protect the state’s resources and ensure that all mining activities are conducted in accordance with the law,” Effiong said. “We will not tolerate illegal mining in Cross River State.”

He noted that illegal mining not only deprives the state of revenue but also endangers the environment and livelihoods of communities where such activities are carried out.

According to him, unregulated excavation often leads to land degradation, water pollution, and communal clashes.

Effiong stressed that the taskforce will not bow to threats or intimidation from those profiting illegally from the state’s mineral wealth. “We are committed to supporting responsible mining practices that benefit the state and its people. No amount of pressure will make us relent,” he added.

The chairman further appealed to miners in the state to regularise their operations by complying with laid-down regulations, warning that anyone caught violating the law will face arrest and prosecution.

Meanwhile, the taskforce has urged members of the public to report suspicious mining activities in their communities to the authorities for swift action, assuring that such reports will be treated with confidentiality.

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