The Federal Government has confirmed the death of 13 miners following the collapse of a mining pit in Jabaka village, Maru Local Governmen...
The Federal Government has confirmed the death of 13 miners following the collapse of a mining pit in Jabaka village, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, last Thursday.
Out of the 15 miners initially trapped, 13 have been confirmed dead, while efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining two.
The confirmation was made in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.
Reacting to the incident, the Minister described the tragedy as “avoidable and unfortunate,” and ordered the immediate deployment of federal mines officers to lead the rescue efforts in collaboration with state authorities.
“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 mobilized to the site and are working with officials of the state government on rescue operations, after which the site will be sealed off,” Alake stated.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the collapsed site—known for its loose, sandy soil and gold deposits—was being operated illegally by artisanal miners using rudimentary tools, despite the high environmental and safety risks.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining and emphasised that the site would be shut down once recovery operations are complete.
It will be recalled that, in an effort to curb illegal mining, Dr. Alake launched the Mining Marshals initiative over a year ago. Since its inception, more than 300 illegal miners have been arrested across 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory, and 98 illegal mining sites have been sealed nationwide.
Alake disclosed that plans are underway to expand the operations of the Mining Marshals, with increased personnel and logistical support.
To enhance monitoring and oversight, the Ministry has also commenced the installation of satellite surveillance systems to provide real-time tracking of mining activities across the country.
“As we await the full investigation into the Zamfara incident, let me reiterate that we will not relent until we rid this country of the nefarious activities of illegal miners,” the Minister stated. “With satellite surveillance and strengthened enforcement, we aim to drastically reduce mine collapses and tighten the noose around sponsors of these dangerous operations.”
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