Anifowose Samson
A fragile and opportunistic alliance between illegal miners and armed bandits in Zamfara State has ended in bloodshed, with 19 people killed and four others abducted at a mining site in Gobirwa Chali Village, Bindin District of Maru Local Government Area.
LeadNaija gathered that heavily armed bandits stormed the illegal mining site around 6:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025, opening fire indiscriminately according to report.
The attack left dozens dead and several others injured, sparking panic throughout the community.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were swiftly deployed to the area to stabilize the situation and pursue the attackers.
Sources revealed that many illegal mining sites across Zamfara and the broader North West region operate under uneasy alliances with bandit groups, exchanging royalties or shares in mining proceeds for protection.
“Bandits often provide security to these mining sites in exchange for hefty payments,” one intelligence source disclosed. “However, when disputes over money or loyalty arise, these relationships quickly deteriorate into deadly confrontations.”
He further alleged that influential individuals with vested interests in illegal mining operations continue to operate without interference, enjoying protection from bandits while local miners bear the brunt of the violence.
Security experts have described the attack as a stark reminder of the urgent need to dismantle the illegal mining economy that fuels instability in the region.
“Illegal mining not only sustains violence but also finances further atrocities,” said one security analyst. “It is a vicious cycle that must be broken if Zamfara and the entire North-West are to achieve lasting peace.”
The expert further criticized the Federal Government’s recent lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara State, warning that without effective regulation and security reforms, the problem would persist.
“The issues that led to the initial mining ban have not been adequately addressed,” he stated. “Without strong oversight, these activities will continue to empower criminal elements.”
The tragedy underscores the complex and dangerous nexus between natural resources, criminality, and violence in Nigeria’s troubled North West.
