NSCDC arrest three suspected illegal miners in Kwara
Three Suspected Illegal Miners Apprehended in Kwara State
Three individuals allegedly involved in the illegal transportation of minerals believed to be lithium ore have been arrested by the Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
NSCDC State Commandant Abbas Nda Mohammed announced the arrests during a news briefing on Tuesday. The suspects, identified as Musa Abdullahi, 45, Aliyu Ibrahim, 20, and Ishaq Ibrahim, 51, all hail from Keffi in Nasarawa State. They were apprehended as part of an intelligence-led operation carried out by the Mines and Steel Unit, which is part of the Command’s Special Patrol Team.
The arrests occurred on the Jebba Expressway in the Okolowo area of Ilorin at approximately 10 p.m. on Friday when officers intercepted a truck registered as DKA 990 XJ from Kaduna State. This vehicle was reportedly transporting about 36 tonnes of suspicious material thought to be lithium ore.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspects were unable to produce valid mining licenses, waybills, or any legal documentation authorizing their possession and transport of the mineral resources. Commandant Nda Mohammed stated that inquiries are ongoing to determine the source of the minerals, the ownership details, and to identify any other individuals involved in the operation.
Nda assured the public that the suspects would face legal action in accordance with the law once the investigation is complete. He emphasized the commitment of the NSCDC to safeguarding national resources and vowed to intensify efforts against illegal mining and related criminal activities in the state.
