Apprehended suspects

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    In a press release by the Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Solid
    Minerals Development, Segun Tomori, the accused persons were apprehended in an
    operation called Operation Hayakin Kogo.

    “The Federal Government’s efforts to combat illegal mining received a significant boost
    yesterday with the arraignment of several Chinese nationals for illegal mining activities
    in Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, within Umunneochi Local Government Area of
    Abia State.

    “The suspects, including eight (8) Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, were recently
    apprehended by the Mining Marshals, an elite security outfit crafted from the Nigeria
    Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The Marshals are tasked with ridding the
    mining sector of illegal operators.

    Suspsects charged to court

    The Mining Marshals, codenamed “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” is the brainchild of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake. This initiative is a pivotal component of his 7-point agenda aimed at sanitising the mining environment.

    “The trial of the suspects began yesterday before Justice J.K Omotosho of the Federal
    High Court, Abuja. The prosecution filed a 3-count charge, bordering on mining without
    lawful authority, obstruction of lawful mining operations, amongst others.

    “The defendants include SHEN YONGCHAN, MO BAIXIAN, XIAO BIN, HUANG XU FA,
    MA BINGLI, YANG JIAN, LI PEIYIN, QUE WENYONG, HIYK EDWARD DESMOND,
    and WANDA COMPANY LIMITED.

    “Upon hearing the pleas and arguments from both sides, the defendants were
    remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre until the adjourned date for the continuation of
    the trial.

    “The Mining Marshals, led by ACC John Onoja, comprise a 2,570-strong force
    dedicated to eliminating the nefarious activities of criminal syndicates in mining areas
    across the country.

    “The Minister is committed to strengthening the operations of the Mining Marshals
    through the infusion of technology and more equipment to ultimately ensure that the
    nation reaps maximum benefits from its God-given mineral resources.”

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