“Crackdown at Kogi: Forces Storm Illegal Mining Operation, Apprehend Trio of Suspects”

Forces engaged in Operation MESA have conducted a raid on an unlawful mining location in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, apprehending three individuals and seizing weapons and additional items.

A counter-terrorism and security specialist in the Lake Chad area, Zagazola Makama, disclosed this information in a post on X.

Makama indicated that the operation was executed at approximately 1:00 p.m. on April 13 at Taki, following coordinated actions between the troops of the 12 Brigade and local vigilantes.

As per Makama, the apprehended individuals professed to be gold traders and affiliates of the Miyetti Allah socio-cultural group.

He mentioned that items seized during the operation consist of one handmade pistol, four cartridges, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, two motorcycles, three mobile devices, two machetes, and a total of N68,100.

“The individuals in custody along with the recovered items are presently held by the military for further inquiries and necessary measures,” stated Makama.

He additionally mentioned that this operation is part of ongoing initiatives to combat unlawful mining and associated criminal activities within the state.