The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has arrested four suspects in alleged illegal mining activities.
The NSCDC Commandant in Anambra State, Olatunde Maku, announced this on Friday while parading the suspects in Awka, according to a statement by the agency’s spokesperson in the state, Edwin Okadigbo.
Mr Maku said the suspects were separately arrested on Thursday in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra State, Henry Bolarinwa.
The state commandant explained that the arrest was in “strict compliance” with the directives of the commandant general of the NSCDC to end illegal mining activities across Nigeria.
He identified three suspects as Chidubem Nnamani, 19, Ifeanyi Ekemezie, 34, and Okolie Patrick, 34 – all males and indigenes of different communities in Enugu State.
The fourth suspect, Onyedika Somtoo, 36, hails from Ire Ogidi in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
“These suspects were caught mining laterite without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area.
Article Page with Financial Support Promotion
Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
PREMIUM TIMES delivers fact-based journalism for Nigerians, by Nigerians — and our community of supporters, the readers who donate, make our work possible. Help us bring you and millions of others in-depth, meticulously researched news and information.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Will you support our newsroom with a modest donation to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
YES, I’LL DONATE TODAY
x
Do this later
“With what we have done today, it is an indication and a strong signal to those illegal miners that it is no longer business as usual,” he said.
Mr Maku noted that illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage and poses environmental risks, emphasising the need for miners to operate with valid licences and approved mining sites.
A truck loaded with laterite, nine heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack, and four fuel filters were recovered from the suspects, according to the NSCDC.
The NSCDC commandant commended the Solid Minerals Unit led by Ewogu Chinedu for sustaining the tempo of stamping out illegal miners in Anambra State.
He announced that he had ordered the Intelligence and Investigation Department of the NSCDC to investigate the matter for possible arraignment of the arrested suspects.
On his part, the Federal Mines Officer in the state, Mr Bolarinwa, an engineer, lamented that illegal mining has been causing revenue losses for the country.
Share this:
Support PREMIUM TIMES’ journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
Make Contribution
TEXT AD: Call Willie – +2348098788999
Source: