The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command has arrested four suspects involved in illegal mining activities in the state.

The Commandant, Maku Olatunde, while parading the suspects in Awka on Friday 28th June 2024, stated that the arrests in collaboration with  Federal Mines Officer,  Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra State  were made on Thursday 27th of June, 2024, in strict compliance with the directives of the Commandant General to end illegal mining activities across the country.

The suspects, Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo, were apprehended on June 27, 2024, at around 1300 hours  at the Toll gate Ogbunike in Oyi Local Government Area.

“These suspects were caught mining latriate without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area. 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 added.

The State NSCDC helmsman noted that illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage and poses environmental risks, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to operate with valid licenses and approved mining sites.

Exhibits recovered from the suspects include a truck loaded with  latriate with registration number LAGOS T- 13038 LA, 9 heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack, and  four fuel filters 

He commended the Solid Minerals Unit led by ACC Ewogu Chinedu for sustaining the tempo of stamping out illegal miners in Anambra State.

The suspects are currently in custody and facing further investigation and legal action.

Commenting on the synergy between NSCDC and Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State,  Engr.  Henry Bolarinwa advised  stakeholders in the sector, to ensure that they operate with valid licences and approved mining sites, adding that the warning had become necessary to block the revenue losses and prevent environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities