Oyo State Government, on Monday, announced the arrest of 32 illegal miners, including two Chinese nationals over activities of illegal miners at Sooro market in Kishi, Irepo Local Government Area of the state.
The state Director-General of Operation Burst, Col James Oladipo Ajibola announced this shortly after a critical security stakeholders’ meeting held at the Deputy Governor’s Office, Agodi in Ibadan, the state capital.
According to reports, the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal had, during a clearance operation against the illegal miners at the market, on Sunday, ordered its closure and immediate evacuation of all illegal structures and shanties built across the market and the precious stones.
Ajibola explained that the collaborative efforts of traditional leaders and the joint security task force enabled the instant restoration of peace and order in the area.
He said, “About 32 illegal miners, including two Chinese migrants, were arrested at the Kishi-Sooro market and are currently undergoing investigation at the moment.”
Earlier, the State Government had announced the closure of the market over the activities of illegal miners in the market.The Executive Assistant to State Governor, Seyi Makinde on Security, retd CP Sunday Odukoya, who addressed newsmen warned that the government would not hesitate to pounce on any individual involved in illegal mining activities in thethe state.