NSCDC Stops 9 Truckloads of Mining Materials in Benue
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Benue intercepted a total of nine trucks carrying limonite and lithium, as revealed by state commandant Yakubu Ibrahim during a press briefing in Makurdi.
According to Ibrahim, one of the trucks bearing the registration number Ogun JGB 344 XB, and being white in colour, was stopped at Jato-Aka in Kwande local government area of Benue on October 10. This particular truck was loaded with limonite, which is a crucial ore used in the production of various everyday items such as paints, inks, fabrics, plastics, papers, sunscreen, food, and cosmetics.
Furthermore, Ibrahim mentioned that eight additional trucks, all with Lagos registration numbers, were intercepted on November 19 at Apa Oweto road in Otukpo local government area of Benue. Despite the interceptions, no suspects have been arrested in connection with the illegal transportation of these mining materials as of yet. The drivers and other passengers in the trucks managed to flee upon seeing NSCDC officers, but investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible.
Ibrahim made it clear that the state takes a strong stance against illegal mining and economic sabotage, and assured that there would be no escape for those involved in these criminal activities. In addition to the intercepted trucks, the command presented seven individuals suspected of various crimes to the media. One of the suspects, Jacob Apav, had been on the state government’s wanted list since October 6. Apav was finally apprehended on November 9 in Kwande local government area and is facing charges related to criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, cattle rustling, theft, being in possession of stolen items, and cheating. The other suspects presented were Peter Kpandev, Godwin Sarwuan, Monday Nwoba, Jude Ugoh, Kenneth Njoku, and Francis Nnabu.
The interception of these truckloads of mining materials serves as a clear indication that the government and its security agencies are committed to curbing illegal mining activities and bringing the perpetrators to justice. It is important for the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities and report any suspicious mining-related activities in order to maintain the integrity of the mining sector.
The NSCDC in Benue continues to work tirelessly to ensure the enforcement of mining regulations and to safeguard the resources of the state, and it remains to be seen what further steps will be taken to address the illegal transportation of mining materials.
