Six individuals, including a Chinese national, have been arrested for illegal mining activities in Anambra State.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, made the arrest at a mining site in Odele Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area.
The suspects were identified as Udoka Nwankwo (25), Amaka Samuel (18), Onyi Ijeoma (45), Chimezie Aniefuna (25), Chinaza Omrba (18), and the Chinese national, Babajeje (47).
Commandant Maku Olatunde of the NSCDC disclosed this during a media briefing in Awka while parading the suspects.
He explained that the arrests were made following a tip-off about illegal mining operations in the area.
“These suspected illegal miners were apprehended on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at about 11:40 hours,” Maku said.
He stated that the suspects operated without the necessary licenses and failed to meet legal obligations like paying surface rents, haulage fees, and royalties.
“These activities are a clear violation of Section 33 of the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2027,” he added.
Nation’s Resources at Risk
Maku expressed concern over the impact of illegal mining on the nation’s economy.
He lamented that unauthorized mining activities are siphoning resources and causing significant revenue losses for both the state and federal governments.
“Illegal mining not only drains the country’s resources but also creates environmental hazards and denies the government its rightful revenue,” he stressed.
The commandant assured the public of the NSCDC’s commitment to cracking down on such activities.
“In collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, we are resolute in sanitizing the mining sector,” he declared.
Suspects to Face Prosecution
The NSCDC confirmed that the arrested suspects are currently under investigation.
They will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations, Maku said.
He warned individuals and groups involved in illegal mining to desist from such activities or face the full wrath of the law.
“The days of impunity in the mining sector are over,” he declared.
Public Must Demand Accountability
Henry Bolarinwa, the Federal Mines Officer in Anambra State, also weighed in on the matter.
He emphasized the importance of proper licensing and adherence to regulations in mining operations.
“Mining activities must be done with proper guidance and valid licenses,” Bolarinwa stated.
He urged the public to be vigilant and demand evidence of compliance from miners operating in their communities.
“People must ask for proof of royalty payments and licenses to avoid enabling illegal mining,” he said.
Bolarinwa pointed out the dangers of illegal mining, including environmental degradation and community health risks.
Joint Efforts to Curb Illegal Mining
Bolarinwa praised the collaboration between the NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
He described the synergy as crucial in tackling illegal mining and ensuring compliance with the law.
“The partnership between the NSCDC and our ministry is vital in safeguarding the nation’s resources,” he noted.
The arrests, he added, send a strong message to illegal miners that their activities will not be tolerated.
A Growing Concern in Anambra
Illegal mining has become a growing concern in Anambra State and across Nigeria.
Experts say the country loses billions of naira annually to unregulated mining activities.
Communities near illegal mining sites also suffer from environmental damage, including deforestation and water pollution.
The government has been intensifying efforts to clamp down on illegal miners, but challenges remain.
A Call for Vigilance
As investigations continue, authorities are urging communities to report suspicious mining activities.
The public is also advised to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to protect the nation’s resources.
“Our collective effort is needed to end this menace,” Maku said.