NSCDC Mining Marshals Shut Down Illegal Mining Site in Kaduna, Employ Non-Kinetic Strategy
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have shut down an illegal mining operation in Damau community, Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State, using a non-kinetic approach that emphasized dialogue and community engagement over force.
This was disclosed in an official statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Afolabi Babawale.
The operation, which targeted a tin-rich mining site belonging to Trobell Minerals Limited, comes in response to a directive by the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, who had ordered a strategic nationwide campaign against insecurity, vandalism of public infrastructure, and economic sabotage.
The site had reportedly been overrun for months by illegal operators, resulting in substantial economic losses, environmental degradation, and rising insecurity in the area.
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Rather than employing force, the NSCDC Mining Marshals adopted a non-kinetic model. Traditional rulers and local youth groups were engaged in dialogue, leading to the peaceful evacuation of the illegal miners under official supervision.
Local leaders welcomed the diplomatic intervention. “This operation has brought a long-awaited relief. The activities of illegal miners had posed serious threats to lives, livelihoods, and investment,” a community representative said.
The successful operation was highlighted during the one-year anniversary of the establishment of the NSCDC Mining Marshals. Speaking at the event, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the special unit. He praised their work and assured them of continued logistical and operational assistance.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant Attah John Onoja, reiterated the unit’s determination to sustain the momentum. “The fight against illegal mining across the federation remains a top priority and is non-negotiable,” he stated.
The NSCDC’s model of community-inclusive enforcement is increasingly being recognized as a template for more sustainable security interventions in Nigeria’s mineral-rich zones.
By PRNigeria
