Six individuals, including a Chinese national, were arrested for illegal mining in Anambra State.
The operation was a joint effort by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Mines Office. The arrests occurred after authorities received a tip-off about illegal mining activities at an unlicensed site in Odele Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area.
The arrested individuals include Udoka Nwankwo (25), Amaka Samuel (18), Onyi Ijeoma (45), Chimezie Aniefuna (25), Chinaza Omrba (18), and the Chinese national identified only as “Babajeje” (47).
They were apprehended for mining without licenses, failing to pay required fees and royalties, and evading surface rents. These activities violate Section 33 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.
The NSCDC emphasized its commitment to curbing illegal mining, which poses a significant economic threat to the country. State Commandant Olatunde Maku stressed the importance of addressing the issue to prevent further loss of revenue for the federal government.
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