Eighteen people suspected of illegally mining in Niger State are now in the custody of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps Mining Marshals, shifting the case to formal investigation and potential prosecution. The suspects were detained during a routine Nigerian Army operation in Izom, within Gurara Local Government Area, and in line with inter-agency protocols they were moved to the NSCDC Mining Marshals Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja along with exhibits recovered at the site.
The commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah, described the Army's intervention as exemplary, unprecedented and patriotic. He said the operation reinforces the military’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources and supports campaigns to sanitise the mining sector. "The swift arrest of the suspects and their prompt handover to the Mining Marshals reflect a commendable commitment to the rule of law and the protection of Nigeria’s solid mineral resources," Attah said.
Preliminary inquiries by the Mining Marshals reportedly showed the detainees operated without licences, permits or ties to any registered mining company. DAILY POST reports investigators recovered several items believed to have been used in the alleged illegal mining, including motorcycles, pumping machines, crusher engines, communication devices and cash amounting to N2,468,750.
The suspects and seized material remain at the Mining Marshals headquarters in Sauka for further investigation and prosecution. Authorities will now use the recovered equipment and funds as part of evidentiary and investigative work as the case proceeds through NSCDC channels.
