Recently, eight Chinese nationals and a Nigerian individual were remanded in Kuje Prison by an Abuja Federal High Court for engaging in illegal mining activities at Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, within Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
The suspects were apprehended by the Mining Marshals, a security outfit established from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as reported by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
The individuals involved, including Shen Yongchan, Mo Baixian, Xiao Bin, Huang Xu Fa, Ma Bingli, Yang Jian, Li Peiyin, Que Wenyong, Hiyk Edward Desmond and Wanda Company Limited, were ordered to be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre until the adjourned date for the continuation of the trial.
The Mining Marshals, codenamed “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” is a critical component of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake’s 7-point agenda aimed at sanitising the mining environment.
The trial of the suspects began before Justice J.K Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, with the prosecution filing a 3-count charge, including mining without lawful authority, obstruction of lawful mining operations, amongst others.
Led by ACC John Onoja, the Mining Marshals consist of a 2,570-strong force dedicated to eliminating the activities of criminal syndicates in mining areas across the country.
The Minister is dedicated to strengthening the operations of the Mining Marshals through the infusion of technology and additional equipment, ultimately ensuring that the nation reaps the maximum benefits from its God-given mineral resources.