The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Anambra State has arrested four suspects involved in illegal mining activities in the state.
The state Commandant, NSCDC, Maku Olatunde, while parading the suspects in Awka on Friday, stated that the suspects were arrested in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officers, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra state.
Olatunde said the arrests were made on Thursday, in strict compliance with the directives of the commandant-general to end illegal mining activities across the country.
He gave the names of the suspects as Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo, adding that they were apprehended on June 27, at around 13:00 hours at the Toll Gate, Ogbunike in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra state.
He said, “These suspects were caught mining laterite without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area. With what we have done today, it is an indication and a strong signal to those illegal miners that it is no longer business as usual.
“Illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage and poses environmental risks, there is the need for stakeholders to operate with valid licenses and approved mining sites.
“Exhibits recovered from the suspects include a truck loaded with latriate with registration number LAGOS T- 13038 LA, nine heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack, and four fuel filters.”
He commended the Solid Minerals Unit led by ACC Ewogu Chinedu, for sustaining the tempo of stamping out illegal miners in Anambra State.
According to him, the suspects are currently in custody and facing further investigation and legal action.
Commenting on the synergy between NSCDC and Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State, Henry Bolarinwa, advised stakeholders in the sector to ensure that they operate with valid licences and approved mining sites.
Bolarinwa added that the warning had become necessary to block the revenue losses and prevent environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.
