The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State have arrested six suspects among them a Chinese National over illegal mining activities in Anambra State.
Commandant Maku Olatunde, the NSCDC State Commandant stated this in Awka on Thursday, 5th of December 2024, while parading the suspects at the State Command Headquarters Awka.
He listed their names as Udoka Nwankwo, male (25), Amaka Samuel, female (18), Onyi Ijeoma, female (45), Chimezie Aniefuna male, (25), Chinaza Omrba female (18) and the Chinese National Babajeje (47).
According to SC Okadigbo Edwin, Head Media and Tactical Operations on behalf of the Commandant disclosed that the arrest followed a tip-off on their operations at an illegal mining site at Odele Aguleri in Anambra East Local Government Area.
“In our resolute and determination to discharge our statutory mandate in sanitizing the mining sector in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, we cracked down on these illegal miners siphoning the nation’s resources, causing revenue losses to the Federal government.
“These suspected illegal miners were apprehended on Thursday, 5th of December, 2024 about 11:40 hours for not obtaining licence that permits them to operate, mining without paying surface rents and haulage fees to the State government, and royalties to the coffers of the Federal government contrary to section 33 of Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027” Maku said.
Maku stated that the suspects are presently undergoing investigation, and upon its conclusion, they will be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction to face possible prosecution.
Highlighting the importance of synergy between the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Henry Bolarinwa, the Federal Mines Officer of the state, emphasized that obtaining a valid license from the ministry and seeking proper guidance is crucial for anyone interested in mining.
Bolarinwa warned the public to request evidence of licenses from mining site owners and proof of royalty payments to the government. He stressed that this warning is necessary to prevent revenue losses and environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.
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