By Pedro Ayobami
Kindly share this news
The Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested six individuals, including a Chinese national, for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities in the state. The suspects were apprehended at Odele, Aguleri Anambra East Local Government Area, following a collaborative effort between the NSCDC and Federal Mines Officers of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Anambra.
According to the State Commandant of the NSCDC, Olatunde Maku, the suspects were caught operating illegal sand and laterite mining sites without obtaining the necessary licenses. They were also accused of failing to pay surface rents and haulage fees to the state government, as well as royalties to the Federal Government, in contravention of Section 33 of the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027.
The suspects, who are currently being detained, include Udoka Nwankwo, 25; Amaka Samuel, 18; Onyi Ijeoma, 45; Chimezie Aniefuna, 25; Chinaza Omiba, 18; and Babajeje David, a 47-year-old Chinese national. Commandant Maku emphasized that the NSCDC is committed to sanitizing the mining sector and ensuring that individuals and organizations operate within the bounds of the law.
The suspects will be charged accordingly upon the completion of investigations. This development highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and regulatory bodies to combat illegal mining activities and ensure that the country’s natural resources are exploited in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Kindly share this news!!!