Anambra: NSCDC, Federal Mines Officer Arrest Chinese National, Others For Illegal Mining

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer in Anambra State, have apprehended six suspects, including a Chinese National, for engaging in illegal mining activities in the state.

 

According to SC Okadigbo Edwin, the NSCDC’s Head Media and Tactical Operations, the NSCDC State Commandant, Maku Olatunde disclosed this information in Awka, while parading the suspects at the State Command Headquarters.

Maku identified the suspects 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).

 

He stated that they were apprehended at an illegal mining site in Odele Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, following a tip-off.

 

Commandant Maku emphasized the importance of cracking down on illegal miners who are siphoning the nation’s resources and causing revenue losses to the government.

 

The suspects were arrested for operating without the necessary licenses, failing to pay surface rents, haulage fees, and royalties, which are all against the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027.

 

” 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 at 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 added that the suspects are currently under investigation and will face prosecution once the investigation is concluded.

 

Henry Bolarinwa, the Federal Mines Officer of the state, stressed the need for proper licensing and guidance when engaging in mining activities.

 

He warned the public to ensure they request evidence of licenses and royalty payments to prevent revenue losses and environmental hazards associated with illegal mining.

 

Bolarinwa noted that the synergy between the NSCDC and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is crucial in combating illegal mining activities and ensuring compliance with mining regulations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi