Niger State, (TheGavel): The Niger State Police Command has confirmed an attack on MI Wushishi Estate in Minna by suspected illegal artisan miners operating near the estate. The incident occurred on Tuesday at around 2:00 pm, according to the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun.
Abiodun stated that “on Tuesday at about 1400hrs, a distress call was received that suspected illegal miners, miscreants and thugs engaged in a fight and were attacking houses in the estate.” He added that a police patrol team, led by the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Maitumbi Division, was quickly dispatched to the scene and the miscreants were dispersed.
Unfortunately, one person, whose identity has yet to be ascertained, was killed by the hoodlums during the attack. The victim’s body was taken to the General Hospital morgue. Abiodun assured that normalcy has been restored to the area, with a patrol team positioned to prevent further incidents. An investigation has commenced to arrest the fleeing suspects.
The attack is believed to be a retaliation against the state government’s recent ban on illegal mining activities, which has been linked to increased insecurity and environmental challenges. The ban was imposed due to the spike in insecurity and environmental challenges caused by the illegal miners.
Eyewitnesses reported that the suspects invaded the estate in large numbers, vandalizing vehicles, houses, and property, while many residents were away at work. The attack has left many residents in fear, and they are calling on the government to take more drastic measures to address the issue of illegal mining.
The Niger State Government has been working to address the issue of illegal mining, and the recent ban is part of efforts to ensure the safety and security of residents. The government has also been working to provide alternative livelihoods for those affected by the ban. (NAN)
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