The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended 29 individuals for alleged involvement in illegal mining and vandalism in Bauchi State.

Speaking on Saturday in Bauchi, the state Commandant, Oloyede Oyerinde, revealed that the suspects were arrested following intelligence-led operations around Waya Dam, approximately 40 kilometers from the Bauchi metropolis.

According to Oyerinde, the illegal mining activities had been contributing to erosion, land encroachment, and security risks, negatively impacting socio-economic activities in the area. Acting on credible intelligence, the corps conducted a raid on January 5, leading to the arrest of the suspects.

During the operation, security operatives recovered various items, including three motorcycles, six wheelbarrows, 15 shovels, five diggers, three hoes, three rakes, an axe, a cutlass, a sand net, two water hose pipes, and a water pumping machine.

In a separate operation, NSCDC personnel also arrested one suspect for allegedly vandalizing and stealing armoured cables from the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Tomb in Bauchi. The operatives recovered a handsaw and pieces of the stolen cables.

Commandant Oyerinde reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure while curbing illegal activities across the state.