About 32 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, involved in illegal mining operations at Sooro market in Kishi, Irepo Local Government Area has been arrested by the Oyo State Government.
The announcement was made by the state Director-General of Operation Burst, Col James Oladipo Ajibola, following a critical security stakeholders’ meeting held at the Deputy Governor’s Office in Ibadan, the state capital.
During a clearance operation against illegal miners at the market on Sunday, the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, ordered the closure of the market and the immediate evacuation of all illegal structures and shanties built across the market and the precious stones.
Ajibola commended the collaborative efforts of traditional leaders and the joint security task force, which led to the restoration of peace and order in the area.
“About 32 illegal miners, including two Chinese migrants, were arrested at the Kishi-Sooro market and are currently undergoing investigation,” he stated.
The closure of the market was previously announced by the State Government due to the activities of illegal miners.
Executive Assistant to the State Governor on Security, retired CP Sunday Odukoya, reiterated the government’s firm stance against illegal mining activities.
“We just had an intensive meeting on security over the illegal mining happening in Oke-Ogun, especially in Sooro in Irepo Local Government.
The government has taken its position, which means that everybody has to stand up to their responsibility to ensure adequate peace in the region,” Odukoya stated.
He warned against collusion with illegal miners, emphasizing the government’s readiness to deal decisively with offenders.
“The government will not relent in ensuring that the area remains peaceful, and the market remains closed until further directive is given by the State Governor, Seyi Makinde,” he added.
