NSCDC nabs 11 illegal miners, impounds trucks during raid

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Akwa Ibom Command, has apprehended 11 persons involved in illegal mining activities in Afaha Ikot Osom, Ibesikpo Local Government Area of the state. Additionally, three tipper trucks employed for the illicit mining operations were confiscated by the security operatives.

The revelation came during a briefing by the State Commandant, Mr. Eluyemi Eluwade, at the Command’s headquarters in Uyo last Friday, January 12, 2024. Eluwade highlighted that the arrests followed numerous complaints about environmental degradation caused by mining and excavation in the area.

“On Jan. 10, 2024, we deployed personnel of the Corps to the site who arrested 11 suspects and impounded three tippers, generator, shovels, wheelbarrows, and other materials used in excavating sand,” Eluwade explained.

Expressing concern over the extensive damage to the environment caused by unlicensed miners, Eluwade mentioned that despite directives to halt such activities due to their adverse impact on houses and public infrastructure, the illegal miners persisted.

Eluwade urged illegal miners to legalize their operations by obtaining licenses from the Federal Mines Office, emphasizing the need for environmentally friendly mining practices. He emphasized that mining should be conducted by licensed individuals on approved lands/sites.

The state commandant also pledged to conduct more awareness campaigns in collaboration with legal miners to discourage illegal mining activities. As investigations continue, the arrested suspects will face legal charges, marking a stern response from the authorities to curb illicit mining practices in the state, he assured.