FG deploys eight gun trucks to boost fight against illegal mining

The Federal Government of Nigeria has acquired and deployed eight operational gun trucks to enhance the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals' fight against illegal mining. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said additional state-of-the-art equipment and armored vehicles will be provided once budgets are approved. In two years, the Mining Marshals have arrested over 300 illegal miners, prosecuted more than 150 suspects, and secured numerous convictions. Alake condemned illegal miners as 'saboteurs' and 'enemies of the state,' while Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo pledged full backing in training, funding, and firepower.