…..NSCDC Mining Marshals Hail Army For Handing Over 18 Illegal Miners
The NSCDC Mining Marshals have commended the Nigerian Army for its cooperation in the fight against illegal mining after 18 suspected illegal miners were arrested in Niger State and handed over for prosecution.
The suspects were arrested by troops of the 102 Guards Battalion during a routine operation at an illegal mining site in Izom, Gurara LGA of Niger State.
In line with inter-agency protocols, the Army transferred the suspects and exhibits to the NSCDC Mining Marshals Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja for further investigation.
The Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC John Onoja Attah, described the collaboration as exemplary and patriotic.
“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.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects operated without licenses, permits, or affiliation with any registered mining company. No evidence of lawful mineral titles was presented.
Items recovered include motorcycles, pumping machines, crusher engines, communication devices, and cash amounting to ₦2,468,750.
Attah reiterated the Corps’ commitment under Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi to use intelligence-driven operations to tackle economic saboteurs in the mining sector.
He assured stakeholders that the Mining Marshals would continue to enforce the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 to protect the nation’s mineral wealth.
Also speaking, Abdul Ben of the Open Dialogue Initiative praised the Army’s professionalism, noting that the intervention strengthens efforts to curb illegal mining nationwide.
The Mining Marshals said investigations have been concluded and the suspects are being processed for prosecution under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007.
