The Federal Government has pressed charges against eight Chinese nationals and one Nigerian for engaging in unlawful mining in the Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State. These individuals were apprehended by the Mining Marshals, an elite security unit within the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), which is dedicated to eradicating illegal operations in the mining sector.
According to the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, the Mining Marshals, under the operation code-named “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” were established to address illegal mining activities as part of a 7-point agenda to sanitize the mining environment by Minister Dele Alake.
The individuals, identified as SHEN YONGCHAN, MO BAIXIAN, XIAO BIN, HUANG XU FA, MA BINGLI, YANG JIAN, LI PEIYIN, QUE WENYONG, HIYK EDWARD DESMOND, and WANDA COMPANY LIMITED, are facing a 3-count charge before Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The charges include mining without lawful authority and obstruction of lawful mining operations. During the hearing, the court remanded the defendants at Kuje Correctional Centre until the next trial date.
The Mining Marshals, led by ACC John Onoja, consist of a 2,570-strong force dedicated to combating illegal mining activities nationwide. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, emphasized his commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the Mining Marshals through technological advancements and additional equipment. This initiative aims to ensure that Nigeria benefits fully from its mineral resources.
The statement from the Minister’s office expressed that the trial of these suspects marks a pivotal step in efforts to clean up the mining sector and ensure that the nation reaps the maximum benefits from its mineral resources.
In conclusion, the prosecution of these individuals for illegal mining activities demonstrates the government’s dedication to eradicating illicit operations in the mining sector and ensuring that Nigeria maximizes the potential of its mineral resources. The efforts of the Mining Marshals highlight the commitment to combatting illegal mining activities and promoting sustainable and lawful mining practices.