The Federal Government has swiftly deployed federal mines officers to Zamfara State to lead rescue operations following a mine pit collapse in Kadauri Village, Maru.
The collapse, triggered by heavy rainfall and aggravated by the unlawful activities of illegal miners, has trapped at least 15 itinerant mine workers, with 13 bodies recovered so far. According to the Ministry of Solid Minerals, “Efforts are on course to recover the remaining two, still trapped in the rubble.”
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has mobilized its first responders to the site, who are working with officials of the state government on rescue operations. After the rescue operations are completed, the site will be sealed off. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, described the loss of lives as “both avoidable and unfortunate.” He said, “I received with deep shock the report of the unfortunate incident in Zamfara, which has unfortunately resulted in some casualties. Our first responders have been mobilised to the site and are working with officials of the state government on rescue operations, after which the site will be sealed off.”
Preliminary investigations reveal that the area is characterized by loose sand and traces of gold, making it suitable for alluvial mining. Once gold traces were discovered, illegal miners mobilized itinerant workers who rushed to the site with rudimentary tools, disregarding environmental and safety risks. The ministry has emphasized that the incident highlights the dangers of illegal mining in Zamfara, where armed gangs often control gold fields, fueling violence and deadly accidents.
The Federal Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining, warning those involved to desist or face the full weight of the law. Dele Alake noted that the government launched the mining marshals over a year ago, and their operations have led to the arrest of over 300 illegal miners across 10 states and the FCT, and the sealing of 98 illegal mining sites. “Efforts to expand the scope of their operations across the country and bolster their capacity with more boots on the ground and logistics are underway,” the ministry said.
The government has pledged to work closely with local authorities to ensure safe and responsible mining activities. As rescue efforts continue, concerns are growing over miner safety in the region. The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many calling for increased measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious mining activities to the authorities.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has assured that the government will not relent in its efforts to rid the country of the nefarious activities of illegal miners. With improved security in Zamfara, the government has intensified security operations in the state and the North-west region to ensure that full mining operations resume in earnest.
