23.5 C
Lagos
Thursday, October 2, 2025

Mail

spot_img

Cross River Taskforce Recovers 24 AK-47 Rifles from Illegal Miners

Effiong Survives Attacks, Vows to Continue Crackdown on Mining Syndicates

Featured in:
- Advertisement -

The Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce has recovered 24 AK-47 rifles from suspected illegal miners operating in different parts of the state.

The weapons were seized during coordinated raids in forested areas known for unlicensed mining activities.

Chairman of the Taskforce, Mr. Paul Effiong, disclosed this during a media interaction shortly after a thanksgiving service held in his honour at The Fountain of Rehoboth Ministry, WAPI Junction, Calabar, to mark his 40th anniversary.

Effiong said the recovery of the rifles underscores the growing threat posed by illegal mining in the state. He insists that despite mounting threats and pressure, the Taskforce remains committed to its mandate.

“I cannot be intimidated by the threats of illegal miners. We have faced severe resistance, including armed attacks. Hoodlums hiding in the forests, backed by powerful interests, have on several occasions disarmed security operatives. But through resilience, we recovered the weapons and handed over the suspects to the appropriate authorities,” he said.

Mining Syndicates and Political Resistance

Effiong also revealed that he and members of his family survived three separate auto accidents within a week—incidents he suspects are linked to his tough stance against illegal mining operations.

“Apart from being physically attacked, I experienced three accidents in one week involving my mother, wife, and daughter. Confronting billionaires who fund these operations and sponsor thugs to obstruct our work is no small task,” he lamented.

Investigations have revealed that illegal mining in Cross River is often backed by wealthy individuals and foreign interests, who allegedly bribe community leaders and exploit legal loopholes to gain access to mineral-rich lands.

The Taskforce has also arrested dozens of suspects in recent months, many of whom hail from outside the state.

Effiong urged public office holders in strategic positions to put God first and seek divine direction in their daily responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Also speaking at the event, General Overseer of Rehoboth Centre, Calabar, Pastor Douglas Vincent, advised Effiong to remain vigilant against sycophants, warning that some may flatter him in times of success but abandon him during challenges.

The Taskforce’s efforts come amid growing concerns over deforestation, environmental degradation, and community displacement linked to illegal mining across Cross River.

Is illegal mining in Nigeria being taken seriously enough by the government? Share your thoughts below.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
×

Join Our News Channels

WhatsApp WhatsApp Channel Telegram Telegram Channel

Find us on

Latest articles

Listen to the news

- Advertisement - spot_img

Related articles

See more articles

Three days after attacking UNICEF, Nigerian Army wants Amnesty...

The Nigerian Army has called for the closure of the Amnesty International offices in Nigeria, alleging there...

Nigerian Air Force Airstrike Sparks Outrage After Locals Claims...

A Nigerian Air Force airstrike mistakenly hit a mosque in Kaduna’s Giwa Local Government Area, killing at least 23 worshippers. While the military claims they targeted terrorists, locals dispute the account, citing civilian casualties.

Hundreds of Male Captives Rescued From Captivity in Kaduna...

About 300 males inmates, mostly young boys, were on Thursday 26 September rescued by the Nigeria Police...

Aba Killings: President Tinubu Vows To Crush Violent Non-State...

Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has condemned the killing of some soldiers of the Nigerian Army in Aba,...

Nigerian Police Boss Ban Public Parading of Criminal Suspects...

Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has banned public parading of suspects before trial. The directive aims to protect human rights and ensure fairness in the justice system. Legal experts welcome the decision, but enforcement remains key.

South West Hunters Call for Empowerment to Fight Off...

Dr. Nureni Akintola, National President of the Soludero Hunters Association, has urged South West governors and traditional rulers to empower local hunters against rising banditry. He also called for unity among kings and support for Sunday Igboho…
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x