Section 161
State or its agent may conduct prospecting
—
The Government or its agent authorized by it in writing may conduct prospecting for minerals on any land within the
State.
(2)
Where—
(a)
an employee of the Government; or
(b)
an agent authorized under subsection (1), conduct prospecting for minerals on any land other than State land, he shall be liable to pay compensation to the owner thereof for any loss, damage or disturbance caused by such prospecting activities.
(3)
Where there is a dispute between the parties with regard to the amount of compensation payable under subsection (2), the matter shall be referred to the High Court for a decision.
(4)
No agent authorized under subsection (1) to conduct prospecting for minerals may be granted a mining lease on any land which such agent has explored on behalf of the State.