The campaign against illegal mining in the Lokpaukwu community of Abia State has taken a positive turn with the arraignment of several Chinese nationals and one Nigerian for engaging in unlawful mining activities. The individuals in question were apprehended by the Mining Marshals, a special security group formed from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), dedicated to eradicating illegal mining operations.
According to the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, the arrest of the suspects marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining in the region. The Mining Marshals, under the operational name “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” are part of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake’s 7-point agenda to cleanse the mining sector of illegal practices.
The suspects, comprising eight Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, were brought before Justice J.K Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja to face a 3-count charge, including mining without lawful authority and obstruction of lawful mining operations. The accused individuals are SHEN YONGCHAN, MO BAIXIAN, XIAO BIN, HUANG XU FA, MA BINGLI, YANG JIAN, LI PEIYIN, QUE WENYONG, HIYK EDWARD DESMOND, and WANDA COMPANY LIMITED.
Following the presentation of pleas and arguments from both sides, the defendants were remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the continuation of their trial on the adjourned date. The Mining Marshals, under the leadership of ACC John Onoja, are a formidable force of 2,570 personnel dedicated to eradicating criminal activities in mining areas throughout the country.
The statement also highlighted the Minister of Solid Minerals Development’s commitment to strengthening the operations of the Mining Marshals by incorporating advanced technology and additional equipment. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the nation is able to derive maximum benefits from its abundant mineral resources.
The arraignment of the Chinese nationals and the Nigerian suspect is a clear indication of the government’s unwavering determination to combat unlawful mining activities in the country. It serves as a deterrent to others who may be considering engaging in similar illegal practices and reinforces the message that such activities will not be tolerated. The efforts of the Mining Marshals, coupled with the government’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law in the mining sector, are crucial steps towards creating a more regulated and sustainable mining environment in Nigeria.
As the trial progresses, it is hoped that justice will be served, and the outcome will set a precedent for maintaining the integrity of the nation’s mining sector. The collaboration between the government, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary underscores the collective effort to address the challenges posed by illegal mining and uphold the legal framework governing the mining industry.