NSCDC detains 6 suspected illegal miners in Anambra

The Anambra Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has detained for prosecution six persons for alleged illegal mining in the state.

NSCDC’s Commandant in the state, Olatunde Maku, who said this on Thursday in Awka, said the suspects were apprehended and detained at Odele, Aguleri Anambra East Local Government Area.

He said the arrest and detention of the suspects carried out in collaboration with Federal Mines Officers of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra, following credible information.

The suspects, according to him, include Udoka Nwankwo, male, 25; Amaka Samuel, female, 18; Onyi Ijeoma , female, 45; Chimezie Aniefuna male, 25; Chinaza Omiba, female 18, and a Chinese National, Babajeje David, 47.

“In our determination to discharge our statutory mandate in sanitising the mining sector, we cracked down on these illegal miners.

“The suspects were caught operating illegal sand and laterite mining site without obtaining licence that permits them to operate.

“They were mining without paying surface rents and haulage fees to the state government and royalties to the Federal Government which is contrary to Section 33 of Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027.

“They were siphoning the nation’s resources and causing revenue losses to the Federal Government,” he said.

The commandant said the suspects would be charged accordingly after investigations.

Mr Henry Bolarinwa of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, advised miners to operate with valid licenses and to seek proper guidance from the ministry.

Bolarinwa said the warning became necessary to block revenue leakages and prevent environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.