The federal authorities have assumed control of the rescue mission following the devastating collapse of a zamfara-mosque-attack-5-killed/” title=”Tragic Attack: Bandits Slaughter 5 Worshippers Inside … Mosque”>mining pit in Kadauri Village, located within the Maru local government area of Zamfara State.
Acting promptly on reports of the disaster, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD) dispatched federal mining officials to Zamfara to oversee and coordinate the ongoing search and rescue efforts at the affected site.
Segun Tomori, the media aide to Minister Dr. Dele Alake, explained that the collapse was primarily caused by intense rainfall, compounded by the reckless activities of unauthorized miners. Approximately 15 artisanal miners were trapped under the debris. To date, rescue teams have recovered 13 bodies, with no survivors found, while operations continue to locate the remaining two individuals.
Minister Alake characterized the tragedy as both preventable and deeply regrettable, expressing profound sympathy for the lives lost.
“I was deeply saddened to learn of this unfortunate event in Zamfara, which has resulted in casualties. Our emergency response teams have been deployed to the scene and are collaborating closely with state officials on rescue efforts. Following this, the site will be secured to prevent further incidents,” the Minister remarked.
Initial inquiries by the Ministry indicate that the site, characterized by loose sandy soil and known for gold deposits, was being exploited through hazardous alluvial mining methods by illegal operators. Upon discovery of gold, unlicensed miners rushed in with makeshift equipment, disregarding environmental safety and proper mining standards.
In response to the surge in unlawful mining, the MSMD has stepped up enforcement measures. Dr. Alake highlighted that over the past year, the Mining Marshals-a specialized security unit-have apprehended more than 300 illegal miners across 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory, shutting down 98 illicit mining locations. Plans are underway to expand the marshals’ operational capacity and resources nationwide.
Zamfara poses distinct challenges due to its history of banditry and insecurity, which have hindered legitimate mining ventures. The current administration under President Tinubu, through coordinated military campaigns led by the National Security Adviser (NSA), has made notable strides in restoring stability to the region.
Following these security improvements, Dr. Alake announced in December 2024 the removal of the mining ban in Zamfara. Since then, the federal government has enhanced security measures across the North West to support the safe recommencement of licensed mining activities.
To bolster regulatory oversight, the Ministry has initiated the deployment of satellite monitoring systems designed to provide real-time surveillance of mining operations nationwide. This technology will facilitate rapid emergency responses, such as in the Zamfara incident, and serve as a deterrent against illegal mining practices.
While awaiting the full findings of the investigation into the Kadauri mine collapse, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment:
“We remain resolute in our mission to eradicate illegal mining from our nation. Despite the vastness of our territory, we are undeterred. With the integration of satellite surveillance and enhanced enforcement strategies, we aim to significantly reduce mine collapses and clamp down on those who finance illicit mining activities,” Alake declared.
The federal government extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
