By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have uncovered an illegal gold mining operation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and arrested two suspects in a major crackdown on unlawful mining activities.
The operation was carried out in the Gwagwalada Area Council following credible intelligence and a formal petition alleging illegal mining within the coordinates of a valid exploration licence. Acting on the information, the specialised enforcement unit of the Mining Marshals stormed the location and apprehended the suspects while they were allegedly engaged in active gold extraction.
According to the NSCDC Mining Marshals, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were conducting mining operations outside the boundaries of an approved mineral title area, a violation that raises serious concerns about regulatory compliance and the unauthorised exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
The agency noted that the illegal activities also posed significant environmental and security risks to the affected community. Residents had reportedly expressed concerns over the adverse impact of unregulated mining operations on the environment and public safety in the area.
“The suspects are currently assisting investigators, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the illegal operation. Investigators are also examining the full extent of possible violations under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act,” the statement said.
Speaking on the development, Commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, ACC John Onoja Attah, reiterated the Corps’ determination to eradicate illegal mining across the country, warning that no location in Nigeria would serve as a safe haven for offenders.
He stated that ongoing enforcement operations are aimed at ensuring strict compliance with mining regulations while bringing perpetrators of illegal activities to justice.
Attah further explained that the operation was in line with the directive of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, who has consistently emphasised a zero tolerance approach to illegal mining and other forms of economic sabotage.
According to him, the Commandant General’s leadership has strengthened inter agency collaboration, enhanced intelligence gathering and intensified enforcement measures designed to restore order, accountability and investor confidence in the solid minerals sector.
“The latest operation aligns with the vision and firm directive of the Commandant General that no stone should be left unturned in the fight against illegal mining and the protection of the nation’s critical assets. Under his leadership, the Corps has continued to record significant successes in safeguarding the solid minerals sector,” Attah stated.
He warned that individuals and groups involved in illegal mining would be tracked, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law, stressing that the Mining Marshals remain committed to dismantling illegal mining networks and protecting Nigeria’s mineral wealth for the benefit of all citizens.