Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has ordered the closure of a facility used for mining activities by some of the state’s alleged illicit miners.
During his visit to the plant on Saturday, the governor ordered its closure.
It was learned that the business, which is located in Idi Ayunre in the state’s Oluyole Local Government Area, was initially intended to recycle batteries and tyres.
During the visit, Makinde reported the arrest of four suspects who were operating at the facility.
The accused are presently in the hands of security forces.
The governor stated that the arrested individuals would be prosecuted once the inquiry was completed.
While addressing, the governor stated that the plant operated in violation of the state’s permitted business licence.
Makinde further stated that a preliminary inquiry found that the factory was run by some Chinese.
According to the Governor:
“Sadly, the folks are even getting bolder. This place, according to records available to us, was meant to be a yard for recycled tyres and batteries.
“But coming in here, you can see there is no single battery or tyre here. They are crushing lithium here and they had support from all over.
“The preliminary investigation indicated that some Chinese are the ones leading this. They also have a lawyer from Katsina.
“The state government will take over the facility via a court process, as this is a clear violation of the Executive Order that I signed and it is a problem that we have to address.
“Some four persons have been arrested and they are with the security agencies. The Chinese people have been taken to Immigrations and, once we are able to find something to prosecute them, then, we will prosecute them.”
cc: Daily Post Ng
