Nigeria’s efforts to combat illegal mining activities took a step forward with the arrest of four Chinese nationals in Nasarawa State. The arrest was carried out by the newly commissioned Mining Marshals, a specialized unit within the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Following the creation of the Mining Marshals, the NSCDC has intensified its efforts to crack down on illegal operations that undermine the nation’s economy. Acting on credible intelligence, the Marshals conducted a sting operation at an illegal mining site in Karu Local Government Area.
The operation resulted in the arrest of four Chinese nationals who confessed to running the illegal lithium mining site. The seized minerals were confiscated under the provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act (2007).
According to the Mining Marshall Commander, ACC. Attah John Onoja, the authorities refused to honour the suspects’ invitation for questioning, leading to their arrest. An application for forfeiture of the seized lithium will be filed in court, with the proceeds going to the Federal Government.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were selling the lithium without the required licenses. Their registered company, HOSAN AGRO-ALLIED COMPANY LTD, was intended for agricultural activities, not mineral dealing.
This arrest reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to eradicate illegal mining and mineral theft across the country. The NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, has urged the Mining Marshals to continue their work in ridding Nigeria of this illegal activity.
