In a decisive move to clamp down on unlawful exploitation of mineral resources, operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested 17 individuals suspected of engaging in illegal mining activities in Kogi State. The operation, which also saw the seizure of several vehicles and equipment allegedly used in the illicit enterprise, was executed in the Odiagbo-Okaba axis of Ankpa Local Government Area.
The successful raid was carried out by the NSCDC’s Mining Marshals, a special task force established through the collaborative efforts of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Ministry of Interior. The initiative aims to enforce Nigeria’s mining regulations, dismantle unauthorised operations, and safeguard the nation’s vast mineral wealth from economic saboteurs.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by NSCDC’s spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, the operation led to the impoundment of three heavy-duty trucks and 39 motorcycles allegedly being used to transport illegally extracted minerals from the area. The crackdown was spearheaded by Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah, who led his team through the targeted mining zone following a series of escalating complaints from local residents.
Communities in the affected area had raised the alarm over increasing cases of environmental degradation, water pollution, and general public health hazards they attributed to unregulated and illegal mining activities. These concerns prompted the NSCDC to act swiftly to curtail the damage and bring those responsible to justice.
Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, while reacting to the operation, reaffirmed the Corps’ unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s critical assets from illegal exploitation. He emphasized that illegal mining not only undermines the nation’s economy but also puts local populations and the environment at serious risk. Dr. Audi assured that the Corps would intensify its efforts and expand operations to other regions where such economic sabotage continues unchecked.
“The era of impunity in the mining sector is over,” the statement read in part. “Our operatives will continue to pursue and dismantle these criminal networks that are profiting at the expense of Nigeria’s environmental safety and economic stability.”
The arrested suspects are currently in custody and undergoing investigation. NSCDC officials noted that those found culpable would face prosecution in accordance with the laws governing mineral resource management and environmental protection in Nigeria.
This latest development underscores the NSCDC’s evolving role in tackling illegal mining, an issue that has plagued several states in the country. As enforcement intensifies, authorities are calling for increased community cooperation and vigilance in exposing illicit operations threatening Nigeria’s natural heritage.
