Governor Bala declares zero tolerance for illegal mining in Bauchi

By Muslim Lawal:

Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has directed security agencies to intensify operations against banditry, kidnapping and illegal mining, warning that nobody involved in criminal activities will be shielded from the law.

The governor gave the directive during the opening session of the Bauchi State Security Council meeting, stressing that the state would not become complacent despite its relative peace.

He commended security agencies for their successes in Alkaleri, Ningi, Ganjuwa and other areas, urging them to extend operations to vulnerable communities, forest reserves and border areas to prevent criminals from establishing hideouts.

Governor Bala Mohammed declared zero tolerance for illegal mining, warning that anyone found culpable would face the law, regardless of political influence, social status or family connections.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Army High Command for approving two new military battalions in Alkaleri and Tafawa Balewa, saying the deployments would strengthen security operations across the state.

The governor charged traditional rulers and local government officials to strengthen intelligence gathering, monitor suspicious movements and report potential security threats.

He warned that anyone found harbouring criminals, illegally allocating land or facilitating unauthorised access to mining sites would face appropriate sanctions.

Governor Bala Mohammed assured residents that his administration would continue to provide logistical and operational support to security agencies.

He urged citizens to provide credible and timely information to law enforcement authorities, stressing that cooperation between security agencies and local communities was essential to preventing criminal activities and sustaining peace in Bauchi State.