Officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested a 47-year-old Chinese man known as Babajeje and five Nigerians—Udoka Nwankwo (25), Amaka Samuel (18), Onyi Ijeoma (45), Chimezie Aniefuna (25), and Chinaza Omrba (18)— all illegal miners in Odele Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area.
The NSCDC spokesperson in Anambra, Edwin Okadigbo, confirmed the arrests on Thursday, December 5. He explained that the operation followed a tip-off about activities of unlicensed illegal miners at the site.
Okadigbo stated that the arrests aimed to address illegal mining and prevent revenue losses to the Federal Government.
He said, “Officers apprehended the suspects for mining without valid licences, failing to pay surface rents and haulage fees to the state government, and evading royalties due to the federal government, violating Section 33 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.”
State Commandant Olatunde Maku reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining, describing it as a significant threat to Nigeria’s economy.
The Federal Mines Officer for Anambra, Henry Bolarinwa, urged miners to obtain proper licences and follow established procedures.
He said, “Illegal mining deprives the government of revenue and causes environmental harm. We encourage prospective miners to verify operators’ licences and ensure royalties are paid to the government.”
