EFCC Arrests 31 in Crackdown on Illegal Mining Syndicate in Jos

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 31 suspects, including four Chinese nationals and 27 Nigerians, in a major crackdown on illegal mining in Jos, Plateau State.

    Sign up for the Nigerian Mining Weekly Newsletter
    Get the latest news from the Nigerian solid minerals and mining industry delivered to your inbox.

    The arrests were made on Saturday, March 8, 2025, following a raid on Jiasheng Nigeria Limited, a mining company located at Dura Rayfield, Mangu Road, Jos. The EFCC said the operation was based on credible intelligence linking the company to illegal mining activities in the state.

    Among those apprehended were Chinese nationals Liang Qinyong, Wang Huajie, Zhong Jiajing, and Long Kechong, alongside Nigerian suspects including Akilu Akonimi, Umar Mohammed, Aaron Davo, Auwal Abdullahi, Haruna Umar, Prosper Goddey, and others.

    EFCC Arrests 31 in Crackdown on Illegal Mining Syndicate in Jos

    During the raid, the EFCC seized a truck loaded with eight bags of processed monazite, a mineral used in industrial applications. Each bag weighed 1,000kg and was valued at approximately ₦4 million.

    The anti-graft agency reaffirmed its commitment to combat illegal mining and economic sabotage, warning that all suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.

    Illegal mining has remained a persistent issue in mineral-rich states like Plateau, Zamfara, and Osun, contributing to environmental damage, loss of government revenue, and security threats.

    The EFCC urged stakeholders in the mining sector to adhere to regulatory guidelines, vowing to intensify its crackdown on illicit mining operations nationwide.

      Sign up for the Nigerian Mining Weekly Newsletter
      Get the latest news from the Nigerian solid minerals and mining industry delivered to your inbox.

      Leave a Reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      You May Also Like

      Top 8 Sustainable Practices for Nigeria’s Mining Industry

      With an increasing population and a growing demand for metals and minerals,…

      South Africa’s Mining Industry Faces Global Headwinds

      South Africa’s mining sector is preparing for a tough year ahead, as…

      Tinubu Emphasises Health and Safety in Mineral Exploration

      President Bola Tinubu says his administration will ensure that companies engaged in…

      Lawyer Urges Nigerian Government to Act on Military’s Alleged Role in Illegal Mining

      The Nigerian government has been urged to respond to serious allegations made…