Kebbi: Curfew imposed in Yauri after clash between miners and security forces

From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi

Yauri Local Government Council of Kebbi State has imposed a curfew in Yauri town following a violent clash between gold miners and security agencies.

The incident, it was gathered, began on Tuesday night when security operatives prevented the lynching of a suspect accused of killing a gold miner.

Sources revealed that the intervention of the security agencies in the area triggered the anger of the miners, who later embarked on reprisals.

It was learnt that after the suspect was rescued, the gold miners went on a rampage, burning tyres and obstructing the highway, thereby causing serious challenges for motorists plying the road, which prompted the security agencies to later disperse the protesters.

An eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity, told journalists that recently, last Tuesday, two commercial motorcycle riders were found dead, with their deaths suspected to be linked to the activities of gold miners.

The source further revealed that despite directives by the state governor ordering a halt to all mining activities in the area, the miners have continued operations. According to him, mining activities resumed barely two days after the governor’s visit and directive.

In response to the deteriorating security situation, Yauri Local Government announced the imposition of a curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

The council said the decision was taken to restore peace, protect lives and property, and enable security agencies to effectively manage the situation.