Chinedum Treasure
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command has arrested four suspects involved in illegal mining activities in the state.
The Commandant, Maku Olatunde, while parading the suspects in Awka on Friday stated that the suspects Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo, were apprehended on June 27, 2024, at about 1300 hours at the Toll gate Ogbunike in Oyi Local Government Area.
He said the arrests were effected in collaboration with Federal Mines Officer, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra State in strict compliance with the directives of the Commandant General to end illegal mining activities across the country.
He listed the exhibits recovered from the suspects to include a truck loaded with latriate with registration number LAGOS T- 13038 LA, 9 heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack, and four fuel filters.
“These suspects were caught mining latriate 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.
“The suspects are currently in custody and facing further investigation and legal action,” he added.
Maku regretted that illegal mining had continually constituted economic sabotage with its attendant environmental risks, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to operate with valid licenses and approved mining sites.
He commended the Solid Minerals Unit led by ACC Ewogu Chinedu for sustaining the tempo of stamping out illegal miners in Anambra State.
Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State, Engr. Henry Bolarinwa, while commenting on the synergy between NSCDC and Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, warned stakeholders in the sector to ensure they operate with valid licences and approved mining sites.
He said the warning had become necessary to block the revenue losses and prevent environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.
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