Following reports of illegal gold mining in Gwagwalada, the Federal Capital Territory, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has directed mining marshals to seal off affected sites to prevent potential environmental and public health hazards.
This latest action comes after an earlier operation on August 16, 2025, at District 2 Extension layout in Gwagwalada, which resulted in the recovery and sealing of another illegal mining site and the arrest of sixteen suspects now facing prosecution.
Preliminary investigations revealed that artisanal miners invaded the area after accidentally discovering a gold vein during the digging of a soakaway pit near a residential property. The most recent illegal mining activity occurred on farmland behind CKC in Gwagwalada.
Upon receiving intelligence reports of renewed unlawful operations, Dr. Alake promptly deployed mining marshals to secure the site. Ministry officials, led by the Director of Mines Inspectorate and represented by Deputy Director Sunday Okhuoya, confirmed compliance with the minister’s directive and noted that a full investigation has been launched to determine the root causes of the incidents and prevent recurrence.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah Onoja, announced 24-hour surveillance of the affected areas pending the outcome of the federal inquiry. Residents have been advised to avoid the sites while enforcement and remediation measures continue.
Dr. Alake reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining nationwide and announced plans to deploy satellite surveillance technology to strengthen monitoring and enforcement of mining operations.
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