The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has launched an investigation into alleged illegal mining activities at the Tassa sand mining sites in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area.
The problem followed the publication of an investigative report on widespread environmental degradation, loss of livelihoods and regulatory lapses in the community.
The commission said the investigation followed allegations of illegal mining, destruction of farmlands and environmental pollution linked to sand excavation in the area.
PCACC’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Mansur Bello, disclosed that officials of the commission recently visited the mining sites alongside representatives of the Kano State Ministry of Solid Minerals, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and other relevant stakeholders.
During the inspection, the team reportedly found two companies operating at the sites, with both firms claiming they possessed valid mining licences.
However, the commission said it has commenced verification of the licences to determine their authenticity and whether the operators complied with regulatory requirements.
