The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Anambra State Command, Friday, paraded four suspects arrested for allegedly involving in illegal mining activities in the state.
The suspects, Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo, were reportedly arrested on Thursday at the Toll gate Ogbunike in Oyi local government area for mining laterite without obtaining relevant approvals.
The State Commandant NSCDC, Mr Maku Olatunde, while parading the suspects at Awka, said they were arrested on Thursday in collaboration with Federal Mines Officer, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, in strict compliance with the directives of the Commandant-General to end illegal mining activities across the country.
According to him, the suspects were caught mining laterite without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area, economic sabotage and environmental risks.
He explained that exhibits recovered from the suspects included a truck loaded with laterite with registration number LAGOS T- 13038 LA, 9 heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack, and four fuel filters.
He also noted that the suspects would remain in the custody to face further investigation and legal action, and urged stakeholders’ collaborations to safeguard environment, operate with valid licenses and approved mining sites
