Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma has said that mining and dredging of sands within the Owerri Capital Territory and its environs is now an offence in the state.
He warned that anybody caught in the act will be arrested and made to face the consequences of such illegality.
The Governor stated this during the weekly Executive Council meeting held at the Government House today.
He noted with dismay the activities of criminals on such moribund government-owned industries such as Avutu Poultry Farm, Nsu Ceramics Tiles and many others that have been vandalized by criminals.
“While my government has moved to revitalize these moribund industries in the state, we shall not allow criminals cart away abandoned valuables and equipment which can also be put back to use.
“The most worrisome aspect of it is the criminals collaborate well with some community people who are supposed to protect such government properties.
“I have changed my security agents to be on the lookout, anybody caught in the act shall be seriously dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said.
The Governor further disclosed that investigation of those who had been involved in the illegal mining and dredging is on and perpetrators will soon be fished out and dealt with.
