Troops Intensify Crackdown on Unauthorised Mining 
The Nigerian Army has arrested 18 suspected illegal miners in Niger State and recovered about ₦2.4 million during ongoing security operations in the state.
The arrests are part of wider military efforts to disrupt activities that threaten Nigeria’s natural resources and local security. Recent Army operations have also targeted illegal mining sites in Niger and neighbouring states.
The military has continued to work against illegal mining alongside its broader operations against terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal networks across the country.
The suspects are expected to remain in custody while authorities investigate the alleged mining activities and determine the appropriate legal action.
The crackdown highlights the growing security concerns around illegal mining, particularly in areas where criminal groups can exploit mining activities to generate money and support wider criminal operations.
Authorities have urged communities to provide credible information that can help security agencies identify illegal mining sites and those financing such activities.