The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested six individuals, including a Chinese national, for their involvement in illegal mining activities in Anambra State.
This major operation took place in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, who assisted the NSCDC in apprehending the suspects.
The arrests were made on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at an illegal mining site in Odele Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, after receiving a tip-off about the operation.
The suspects were arrested for operating without the necessary licenses and failing to pay surface rents, haulage fees, and royalties, as required by the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2027.
The arrested individuals were identified as Udoka Nwankwo, a 25-year-old male; Amaka Samuel, an 18-year-old female; Onyi Ijeoma, a 45-year-old female; Chimezie Aniefuna, a 25-year-old male; Chinaza Omrba, an 18-year-old female; and the Chinese national, Babajeje, aged 47.
Speaking to reporters in Awka, the state capital, NSCDC State Commandant Maku Olatunde described the operation as a significant step in the effort to tackle illegal mining in the region.
Maku emphasized the serious risks posed by illegal mining, including environmental degradation and loss of revenue to the federal and state governments. He stressed that the illegal miners had violated the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2027 by not obtaining the required operating licenses, and for their failure to pay essential fees to the government.
“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,” Maku stated.
The NSCDC Commandant also pointed out that the illegal mining activities were contributing to the depletion of the country’s natural resources, which should be harnessed properly for national development.
He said, “These suspected illegal miners were apprehended for not obtaining a license 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 the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027.”
The suspects were arrested around 11:40 AM, and investigations have already begun. The suspects will face prosecution once the investigations are concluded.
The NSCDC has vowed to intensify efforts in curbing illegal mining in the state and across the country. The agency is working closely with relevant government bodies to enforce regulations in the mining sector.
Henry Bolarinwa, the Federal Mines Officer for Anambra State, also expressed concern over the dangers of illegal mining. He highlighted the importance of proper licensing for individuals or companies involved in mining activities.
“Proper guidance and licensing are crucial when engaging in mining activities. These illegal miners have no regard for the law, and as a result, they not only harm the environment but also deprive the government of much-needed revenue,” Bolarinwa said.
Bolarinwa also warned the public to be vigilant and to request proof of licenses and royalty payments from anyone engaged in mining activities. This, he said, would help prevent environmental hazards and ensure that the nation’s resources are not exploited unlawfully.
He also acknowledged the vital role of the NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in curbing illegal mining. Their collaboration is seen as key in ensuring that mining operations in Anambra State and across Nigeria are conducted in accordance with the law.
“The synergy between the NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is critical to the fight against illegal mining,” Bolarinwa added. “We must ensure that the public is educated on the legal requirements and the consequences of engaging in illegal mining.”
This arrest sends a strong message to illegal miners, both local and foreign, that the government is determined to protect Nigeria’s natural resources and ensure that mining activities contribute to national development rather than exploitation.
The NSCDC’s continued efforts are expected to reduce the environmental and economic damages caused by illegal mining in Anambra and other parts of Nigeria.
As investigations continue, the suspects remain in custody, awaiting further legal action. Their arrest is seen as part of a broader effort to tackle illegal mining activities that threaten the country’s economy, environment, and future prosperity.