Over 200 mining sites reclaimed from bandits, illegal miners – NSCDC

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has recovered over 200 mining sites from bandits and illegal miners across the country, according to its Commandant-General, Ahmed Audi.

This operation followed the recent inauguration of Mining Marshals by the Federal Government aimed at safeguarding the nation’s mineral resources.

This was contained in a statement signed on Wednesday by the NSCDC’s spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi.

Audi, who spoke at the passing out parade of the third batch of Mining Marshals in Abuja, revealed that 300 suspects had been arrested for their involvement in illegal mining and economic sabotage.

The crackdown is part of a broader strategy to curb the theft of Nigeria’s solid mineral assets.

“Recall that over 300 suspects and over 200 mining sites have been recovered from illegal miners and bandits,” the NSCDC boss said.

The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr Dele Alake.

Both ministers commended the NSCDC’s efforts and highlighted the critical role of the newly trained mining marshals in protecting the nation’s economic assets.

Tunji-Ojo noted that the rigorous training of the marshals equips them with the skills necessary to safeguard vital national infrastructure.

Alake, who was represented by the Director, Federal Mines and Steel; Imam Ganiyu, emphasised the positive impact of the collaboration between the ministries, citing increased security and potential for higher revenue generation in the mining sector.

Audi assured that the NSCDC would continue its operations, dubbed “Operation Hayakin Logo,” to enhance compliance with mining regulations and deter illegal activities.

The Kogi State Command of the NSCDC paraded three suspects for alleged criminal conspiracy and vandalism.

While parading the suspects at the command headquarters in Lokoja, the state capital, the NSCDC Commandant, Esther Akinlade, said the crime was committed on October 7 and 20, 2024, in Ankpa and Isanlu, both located in the Yagba East Local Government Area of the state.