In a determined effort to combat illegal mining, the Mining Marshals, a specialized unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, have arrested three suspects with 2000 tonnes of illegally mined lithium.
The arrest took place in Gaube, Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The operation, led by Assistant Commandant John Onoja Attah, was made possible through careful intelligence gathering and surveillance. The illegal mining site was sealed off during the operation.
“This is a clear case of illegal miners displacing lawful miners and investors, which will not be tolerated,” said Attah. He explained that the suspects confessed to their illegal mining activities, which they had been conducting for over a year.
“At the time of their arrest, over 2,000 tonnes of lithium was on the ground, highlighting the scale of the illegal operation,” he added.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects did not have any documentation authorizing their mining activities.
Additionally, a legitimate mining company with the necessary permits was unable to access the site due to the illegal miners’ activities.
The seized minerals and equipment have been marked as exhibits for prosecution. Further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the illegal activities.
“This operation is part of a broader effort to combat revenue loss in Nigeria’s mining sector,” said Attah. The success of this operation is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi.
The operation, code-named “OPERATION HAYAKIN KOGO,” aims to rid the mining sector of illegal activities and promote a more secure and prosperous industry.
“This operation sends a strong message to illegal miners and investors that the federal government will no longer tolerate illegal activities that undermine the growth and development of the mining sector,” emphasized Attah.
