Nigeria, Aug. 28 -- The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has sealed off an illegal gold mining site in Gwagwalada, Abuja, following fresh intelligence reports of unlawful activity in the area.

According to information gathered by The News Chronicles, the action was taken to protect residents and avert potential environmental hazards associated with the illegal operations.

Earlier this month, the Ministry's mining marshals also shut down a similar site in the District 2 Extension layout, where 16 suspects were apprehended.

Inspections carried out by the Ministry's Mines Inspectorate confirmed full compliance with the Minister's directive to close the Gwagwalada site.

A comprehensive investigation is underway to identify the root ...