The Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals), Phiona Nyamutoro today declared a nationwide crackdown operation against illegal miners, saying Uganda’s mineral resources must be utilized to benefit citizens.
The youthful minister made the declaration today morning when she led a team of geologists from her ministry to inspect Iron Ore mining activities in Butare Katoojo, Rubanda District, and halted operations of one mining company that was found to be mining illegally.
Accompanied by security chiefs in the area, officials and technical staff from the energy ministry, Nyamutoro said she ordered closure of National Cement -a mining company owned by an Indian national, tress passing an exploration license No.EL00340 belonging to STEAM Investments.
“I directed that the equipment be confiscated by the Mineral Police and mining be halted with immediate effect.
The technical team shall also assess the extent of mining for us to ascertain penalties to be paid by the directors of National Cement Company who are Indian investors that must comply by the Minerals Act 2022 and not rob Ugandans in broadlight!” She notes.
Earlier, it was reported that a scuffle ensued as private security guards at the location attempted to shoot at Nyamutoro’s convoy in a bid to block her from accessing the mining area. This was later confirmed by herself via her personal social media platform.
“We had a scuffle with the private security guards who attempted to block our exit and shoot at our convoy but Police disarmed and arrested five of them while more investigations are being carried out.” Nyamutoro posted adding; “We highly condemn such intimidation that has always been used on the Ministry’s inspectors while on duty in the field!!”
Nyamutoro declared that an operation to crack down illegal mining across the country has just started regardless of every challenge she and her team face.
“This is a call alert to every illegal miner that we are relentlessly on the verge of streamlining the Mineral sector, act accordingly by the law, operate formally and govt shall support you too. Mineral Utilisation for the benefit of citizens must be achieved” Nyamutoro stated.