In a bid to curb illicit mineral trade in Kampala, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development has launched an operation dubbed ‘Operation Zaabu,’ targeting illegal refineries, smugglers, scammers, and unauthorized mineral dealers across the Kampala Metropolitan area. According to Julius Caesar Tusingwire, the head of the Mineral Protection Unit, the crackdown aims to eliminate non-compliant dealers operating without licenses, as well as licensed operators who violate regulatory requirements.
He reported that cases typically average 12 per month. Agnes Alaba, a commissioner at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, stated that Operation Zaabu is intended to ensure full compliance, promote a clean and transparent mineral business environment, and streamline the market. The government also plans to establish regional mineral markets, starting with Kampala, Buhweju, and Jinja, with the operation set to expand to all mining areas across the country.
Julius Wesonga reports.
The post OPERATION ZAABU : Govt to fight illegal mineral dealers first appeared on NTV Uganda.
