Cracking down on Illegal Mining: EFCC Apprehends 41 Suspects and Seizes 12 Trucks in a Recent Operation

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recently undertaken a significant operation in the continued effort to combat illegal mining activities. A total of 41 suspects have been apprehended and 12 trucks have been seized for their involvement in the unauthorized transportation of various solid minerals without the requisite license.

Providing comprehensive details regarding the operation, the EFCC Zonal Commander, Michael Nzekwe, revealed that the arrests were made based on credible intelligence regarding the illicit activities of the illegal miners. The individuals were intercepted at various locations in Share, Banni, Lade, Patigi, and Okolowo in Kwara, as well as Igbeti and Ogbomosho in Oyo State.

The apprehended individuals include Nura Lawan, Tunde Jimoh, Sani Umar, Oyeleke Sunkanmi, and others who were participating in the unauthorized transportation of various minerals outside the state without a valid license. The EFCC has also disclosed the registration numbers of the impounded trucks, highlighting the extent of the illegal mining activities uncovered in the recent crackdown.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the EFCC have indicated that the transported minerals, such as marble stone, white powder, lithium, and lepidolite, were intended for export, posing a significant threat to the Nigerian economy. The commission has reiterated its firm commitment to combating corruption and disrupting the illicit activities of illegal mining operators across the country.

Mr. Nzekwe emphasized the detrimental impact of illegal mining on the economy, emphasizing the potential environmental devastation, socio-economic hardship, and the proliferation of criminal activities that can result from such illicit operations. Emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses, the EFCC has made it clear that the suspects will face legal consequences following thorough investigations.

This recent operation follows the EFCC’s successful conviction of a Chinese national and the subsequent forfeiture of two trucks with their mineral contents to the Federal Government. Furthermore, a group of 13 Chinese nationals was apprehended last year for their involvement in illegal mining activities, further demonstrating the EFCC’s proactive approach in addressing this ongoing issue.

The EFCC’s unwavering stance against illegal mining is a testament to its dedication to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the nation’s economic interests. As the investigation progresses, the EFCC remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and accountability for those involved in illegal mining activities.