Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have uncovered and shut down an illegal mining operation in Uke Community, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, leading to the arrest of 15 suspects.
The operation followed credible intelligence received after a petition was submitted by a licensed mining company, A.A. Kurna Global Mines Ltd. Acting swiftly on the information, the Mining Marshals stormed the site and apprehended individuals allegedly engaged in unlawful mining activities.
Preliminary investigations revealed that 11 of the suspects were directly involved in the illegal mining operations, while others provided support services, including transportation and construction work at the site. Authorities also confirmed that four of the suspects are foreign nationals, whose immigration status is currently being verified as part of ongoing investigations.
The Commander of the Mining Marshals, John Onoja Attah, reaffirmed the Corps’ unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of legitimate mineral title holders. He stressed that ensuring lawful operators have unhindered access to their mining sites remains non-negotiable, regardless of whose interests are affected.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps further reiterated its resolve to safeguard the nation’s mineral resources and enforce strict compliance with mining regulations. The Corps noted that the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure remains a core mandate, strengthened under the leadership and ongoing reforms of the Commandant General, **Ahmed Abubakar Audi