NSCDC in Benue Intercepts Nine Truckloads of Mining Contents
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Benue State has reported the interception of nine truckloads of limonite and lithium, two crucial mining contents. Mr. Yakubu Ibrahim, the State Commandant, disclosed this development during a press briefing in Makurdi on Wednesday. One of the trucks, with the registration number Ogun JGB 344 XB and painted white, was discovered transporting limonite in Jato-Aka, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue on October 10. Limonite, utilized in the production of paints, inks, fabrics, plastics, papers, sunscreen, food, and cosmetics, is an essential source of titanium. Moreover, eight trucks with Lagos registration numbers were apprehended on November 19 at Apa Oweto road in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue.
Despite these interceptions, no suspects have been apprehended and an ongoing investigation is being conducted to hold the perpetrators accountable. The Commandant stressed the severity with which the state regards illegal mining and economic sabotage, affirming that there will be no leniency for those involved. The Nigeria News Agency (NAN) reported that the Command also presented seven suspects, including Jacob Apav, who was on the state government’s wanted list and was arrested on November 9 in Kwande Local Government Area. Apav is facing charges of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, cattle rustling, theft, and possession of stolen items. Other suspects, namely Peter Kpandev, Godwin Sarwuan, Monday Nwoba, Jude Ugoh, Kenneth Njoku, and Francis Nnabu, were also apprehended on different occasions for various offenses.
