NSCDC Busts Illegal Mining Ring in Anambra, 4 Arrested

NSCDC Arrests 4 Illegal Miners in Anambra, Cracks Down on Criminal Activity

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 4 individuals engaged in illegal mining activities in Anambra State, cracking down on criminal activity and environmental degradation.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Anambra State Command has arrested four individuals engaged in illegal mining activities in the state. The suspects were paraded by the state Commandant, Maku Olatunde, in Awka, the state capital, on Friday, June 28.

The arrests were made in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer from the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Anambra State on Thursday, June 27. According to Commandant Olatunde, the operation was carried out in strict adherence to the directives of the Commandant-General to curb illegal mining activities across the country.

The four suspects arrested for illegal mining activities have been identified as Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo, according to Commandant Maku Olatunde.

The suspects were apprehended at Toll Gate, Ogbunike, in the Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, the Commandant revealed.

He said, “These suspects were caught mining laterite without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area. With what we have done today, it is a strong signal to those illegal miners that it is no longer business as usual.

“Illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage and poses environmental risks. There is a need for stakeholders to operate with valid licences and approved mining sites.

“Exhibits recovered from the suspects include a truck loaded with laterite with registration number LAGOS T-13038 LA, nine heavy-duty batteries, one heavy- duty hydraulic jack and four fuel filters.”

Commandant Maku Olatunde commended Mr. Ewogu Chinedu and the Solid Minerals Unit for their tireless efforts to combat illegal mining in Anambra State. The suspects are currently in custody, facing further investigation and legal action.

In a joint effort, the NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development warned stakeholders to operate with valid licenses and on approved mining sites. Henry Bolarinwa, the Federal Mines Officer, emphasized the importance of compliance to prevent revenue losses and environmental hazards resulting from illegal mining activities.