The Ilorin zonal directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday, February 23, announced that it had impounded six trucks laden with solid minerals and arrested eight individuals for illegal mining activities along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso axis of Kwara state.
The arrests were carried out on February 20, following actionable intelligence and several days of surveillance on unlawful mineral excavation and transportation across Kwara and Oyo states.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were intercepted alongside six truckloads of solid minerals believed to be lithium and kaolin.
Preliminary findings indicate that the individuals engaged in mining operations without the required licences, permits or regulatory approvals.
The latest operation brings the total number of illegal miners arrested by the Ilorin zonal directorate to 18 within the last month.
The EFCC has confirmed that the suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as the ongoing investigations are concluded.
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