From CHARLES ONYEKWERE, ABAKILIKI
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Anambra State Command has arrested four suspects involved in illegal mining activities.
The Commandant, Maku Olatunde, while parading the suspects in Awka, the state capital yesterday, stated that the arrest was in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra State on Thursday, in strict compliance with the directives of the commandant-general to end illegal mining activities across the country.
The suspects, Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo, were apprehended at about 1300 hours at Toll gate, Ogbunike in Oyi Local Government Area.
“These suspects were caught mining latriate without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area. With what we have done today, it is an indication and a strong signal to illegal miners that it is no longer business as usual,” he added.
The NSCDC helmsman noted that illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage and poses environmental risks, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to operate with valid licenses and approved mining sites.
Exhibits recovered from the suspects include a truck loaded with latriate with registration number LAGOS T- 13038 LA, nine heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack and four fuel filters.
He commended the Solid Minerals Unit led by ACC Ewogu Chinedu for sustaining the tempo of stamping out illegal miners in Anambra State.
The suspects are currently in custody and facing further investigation and legal action.
Commenting on the synergy between NSCDC and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State, Engr Henry Bolarinwa advised stakeholders in the sector to ensure that they operate with valid licences and approved mining sites, adding that the warning had become necessary to block revenue losses and prevent the environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.
