Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Troops of the 177 Guards Battalion have arrested five suspected illegal miners and recovered a cache of explosives and mining equipment during a targeted operation in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The operation, carried out under Operation MESA, targeted an illegal mining site in the Tattara community on Monday, 1 June 2026, at about 12:00 p.m., according to security sources.
The arrest was announced in a post on X on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency and security expert. Security sources told Zagazola that the operation was part of a long-range patrol conducted by troops deployed at Forward Operating Base Tattara and Patrol Base Zango. The troops recovered seven explosive devices, one detonating cord, detonators, a pumping machine, a generator and three motorcycles. The recovered items were believed to have been used in mining operations at the site. The five suspects were arrested at the illegal mining location and are currently in military custody alongside the recovered items pending further investigation.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining activities, which authorities say pose security, environmental and economic risks to host communities and the nation. Military authorities have reiterated their commitment to supporting efforts aimed at sanitising the mining sector and preventing the unlawful exploitation of mineral resources. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action upon the conclusion of preliminary inquiries.
Illegal mining has become a growing concern across Nigeria, threatening community safety, damaging the environment, and depriving the government of vital revenue. Security forces say operations like this will continue to protect both lives and natural resources. Residents of affected communities have welcomed the intervention, hoping it will bring lasting peace.
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