No fewer than 32 people, among them two Chinese nationals, have been arrested for allegedly engaging in illegal lithium mining at Sooro Market in Kishi, Irepo LGA of Oyo State.
Sunday Odukoya, the special assistant on security to the state governor, disclosed this to newsmen yesterday in Ibadan.
He said the arrest was in response to the rampant illegal mining activities observed in the market.
He also disclosed that the state government has closed down the market and removed all unauthorized structures and shanties erected within its premises following an order by the state’s deputy governor, Adebayo Lawal.
Odukoya reiterated the government’s firm stance against illegal mining activities and warned that severe actions would be taken against anyone involved in such unlawful practices.
He said the market would remain closed until further directives are issued by Governor Seyi Makinde.
