The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Tuesday, September 15, uncovered an illegal gold mining operation in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and arrested two suspects.
The NSCDC said the operation followed credible intelligence and a petition stating unlawful mining activities within the coordinates of a valid exploration license.
According to the NSCDC, a specialised enforcement unit was deployed to the location, where the suspects were apprehended at an active gold extraction site.
Preliminary investigations revealed that mining activities were being conducted outside the boundaries of an approved mineral title area, raising concerns over regulatory violations and unauthorised exploitation of the nation’s mineral resources.
It added that the activities had raised concerns over environmental degradation and security threats in the area, noting that residents had previously complained about the impact of unregulated mining operations in the vicinity.
The suspects are currently assisting investigators, while efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the operation.
“Investigators are also examining the circumstances surrounding the activities at the site and the extent of possible infractions under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act,” NSCDC said.
Speaking on the development, Commander of the NSCDC, John Onoja Attah, warned that no part of the country would serve as a safe haven for illegal miners.
He said ongoing enforcement operations were designed to ensure that compliance with the law became the only sustainable path for operators in the mining sector, while violators would face the full weight of the law.
Attah said the operation aligned with the directive of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, that no stone should be left unturned in the fight against illegal mining and other forms of economic sabotage threatening Nigeria’s national assets.
“Under his leadership, the Corps has strengthened inter-agency collaboration, enhanced operational intelligence and intensified enforcement actions aimed at restoring order, accountability and investor confidence in the solid minerals sector,” he said.
Attah warned that individuals or groups involved in illegal mining activities would be identified, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He added that the NSCDC remained committed to disrupting and dismantling illegal mining networks across the country.
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