Government officials visits collapse mining site in Galkogo.
From Bala Yahaya, Minna
The Niger State Ministry for Mineral Resources has assured that the ministry in collaboration with relevant authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safe rescue of those trapped at the mining site in Galkogo village in Galadima Kogo district of Shiroro Local Council.
Commissioner of the Ministry, Alhaji Garba Sabo Yahaya gave the assurance when he led management team of the Ministry alongside its counterpart of Ministry of Homeland Security as well as the Commissioner of Police to the mining site Wednesday,5th June 2024.
Statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry,Dibie Maureen disclosed that the Commissioner had lamented on the inability of the mining company and community leader of the area to adhered to the earlier directive of the State governor Muhammad Umaru Bago, suspending mining activities and crack down on all illegal mining in the entire Eight Emirate Councils of the state.
It added that the Commissioner has warned that is not going to be business as usual, saying that any mining company that fail to abide by the laid down rules of the government would be sanctioned accordingly, emphasizing that mining companies must consistently follow all the mining principles and operational guidelines to prevent pit collapsed.
District head of the Galkogo, stated that the six victims that were earlier rescued from the incidence had been fully recovered, adding that some of them were part of rescue team.
It was further learnt that the rescue efforts is still ongoing by the combine team of relevant agencies including security agencies.
The site Admin officer of the mining company operating in the area hinted that the pit collapse was as a result of hanging walls within the mining site,noting that those trapped were still under the rubbles