NSCDC Mining Marshals hail Nigerian Army for arrest, handover of 18 suspected illegal miners

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Mining Marshals have commended the Nigerian Army for its cooperation and synergy in the fight against illegal mining following the arrest and handover of 18 suspected illegal miners apprehended at an illegal mining site in Izom, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.

The suspects were arrested by troops of the 102 Guard Battalion during a routine operation that uncovered unauthorised mining activities in the area.

In line with established inter-agency protocols, the Army subsequently handed over the suspects and exhibits recovered from the site to the NSCDC Mining Marshals Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, for further investigation and prosecution.

Reacting to the development, the Commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Onoja Attah, described the collaboration as exemplary, unprecedented and patriotic.

Mr Attah said the action demonstrated the military’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources and supporting efforts to sanitise the mining sector.

“The Nigerian Army has once again distinguished itself through professionalism, discipline and patriotism. 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,” he said.

According to preliminary investigations conducted by the Mining Marshals, the suspects allegedly operated without licences, permits or affiliation with any registered mining company.

Investigators also said the suspects could not provide evidence of lawful mineral titles or authorisation from the relevant regulatory authorities.

The operation also led to the recovery of several items allegedly used in the illegal mining activities, including motorcycles, pumping machines, crusher engines, communication devices and cash amounting to N2,468,750.

Mr Attah reiterated the determination of the Mining Marshals to ensure that individuals involved in illegal mining activities are brought to justice.

He said the Corps, under the leadership of Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, would continue to deploy intelligence-driven enforcement measures against economic saboteurs operating in the country’s mining sector.

He further assured stakeholders in the solid minerals industry that the Mining Marshals remained committed to enforcing the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act and protecting the nation’s mineral resources from illegal exploitation.

Also speaking, Abdul Ben of the Open Dialogue Initiative commended the Nigerian Army for what he described as a professional operation, saying the military’s intervention had further strengthened efforts to curb illegal mining across the country.

The Mining Marshals said investigations had been concluded and the suspects were being processed for prosecution in accordance with relevant provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007.