Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has arrested four suspects involved in illegal mining activities in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the state NSCDC Commandant, Maku Olatunde revealed this while parading the suspects in Awka, the state capital on Friday.
Olatunde revealed that the arrests were a success through collaborative work with the Federal Mines Officer, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Anambra State.
He said the suspects were arrested on Thursday, in strict compliance with the directives of the Commandant-General to end illegal mining activities across the country.
The suspects whose names are Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo were apprehended at around 1 pm at the Toll Gate, Ogbunike in the Oyi LGA of the state.
The commandant 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.”
Olatunde further commended the Solid Minerals Unit led by Mr. Ewogu Chinedu for contributing to the arrest of illegal miners in the state.
He added that the suspects are currently in custody and facing further investigation and legal action.
The Federal Mines Officer of the state, Henry Bolarinwa also spoke on the synergy between NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
He advised stakeholders in the sector to ensure that they carry out their duties with valid licences and approved mining sites.
Bolarinwa noted that the warning is necessary to stop revenue losses and prevent environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.
