Audio By Carbonatix
The authorities in Niger state in central Nigeria have ordered the immediate suspension of all mining activities.
It comes days after gunmen launched a devastating attack on a mining site, kidnapping at least four Chinese miners and killing over 20 members of the Nigerian security forces.
Those abducted remain in captivity.
Niger state government fears some of the privately-run gold and other mines may harbour criminals, and intends now to screen mining sites state-wide.
The federal government also believes proceeds from mining may be funding some of the violent kidnapping gangs currently rife in Nigeria.
Nigeria is struggling to curb a wave of kidnappings for ransom by armed gangs - some of which have at times teamed up with Islamist extremists.
Mining activities have been suspended in some areas in the past but the measure failed to end the kidnapping crisis.
Latest Stories
-
Akandoh warns Boards against interfering in day-to-day management of health institutions
8 minutes -
Rev. Prof. Frederick Amevenku elected 15th Moderator of E.P. Church Ghana
23 minutes -
Photos: Nkwa Hia Fit & Free Health Walk 2026
30 minutes -
A person stopped by police can record for evidence – NRSA
1 hour -
New Road Traffic Law introduces separate licensing regime for commercial drivers
1 hour -
Ghana must move beyond enforcement to tackle road deaths – Appiah Kusi Adomako
2 hours -
Kusi Adomako calls for road crashes to be declared a public health emergency
2 hours -
Ghana makes history with international karting debut
3 hours -
Playback: The Law discussed new road traffic rules
3 hours -
What’s driving men to get penis fillers, despite the risks?
3 hours -
The world’s oldest president left for a ‘brief stay’ in Europe, he hasn’t returned in two months
3 hours -
Trapped driver rescued after accident on Kintampo–Tamale highway
4 hours -
Civil Service must put citizens at centre of decision-making – Vice President
4 hours -
Firefighters battle blaze at Accra New Town apartment
4 hours -
Ghana receives five new envoys to strengthen diplomatic relations – Ablakwa
4 hours