In a significant crackdown on illicit mining operations, the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have apprehended four Chinese nationals at an unauthorized mining site in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
This operation marks a pivotal stride in the ongoing efforts to combat economic sabotage perpetrated by illegal miners.
Babawale Afolabi, the spokesperson for the NSCDC, unveiled the development in a statement issued on a consequential Saturday.
The statement underscored the unwavering commitment of specially trained NSCDC personnel, now designated as Federal Government Mining Marshals, in curbing the nefarious activities undermining the nation’s economy.
With a resolute determination, the Mining Marshals mobilized in response to credible intelligence, unveiling an illegal mining site where lithium, a valuable mineral, was being illicitly traded.
The sting operation culminated in the apprehension of four Chinese nationals, who, upon preliminary interrogation, confessed to orchestrating the illicit operation.
ACC. Attah John Onoja, the Mining Marshall Commander, emphasized the legal basis for the seizure of the confiscated lithium minerals, citing Section 146 (b) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2007.
The refusal of the apprehended individuals to cooperate further necessitated legal action, as an application for the forfeiture of the impounded minerals would be pursued in court, with the proceeds earmarked for remittance to the Federal Government.
Preliminary investigations unearthed alarming revelations regarding the disposal of minerals without requisite licensing—a stark violation of regulatory protocols governing the solid minerals sector.
The arrested individuals, affiliated with HOSAN AGRO-ALLIED COMPANY LTD, admitted to operating without the necessary certification, further underscoring the flagrant disregard for legal frameworks.
The decisive action against illegal mining activities aligns with the steadfast resolve of the Federal Government to eradicate such nefarious practices and safeguard the nation’s mineral resources.
Dr. Ahmed Audi, the NSCDC Commandant General, reiterated this commitment, urging Mining Marshals to intensify their efforts in purging the country of illegal miners and restoring integrity to the solid minerals sector.
As the legal proceedings unfold and investigations deepen, the apprehension of the four Chinese nationals serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative to uphold regulatory frameworks and combat illicit activities that undermine the nation’s economic prosperity.
In the collective pursuit of justice and accountability, stakeholders stand united in their resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s mineral wealth for generations to come.
