Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Strengthen Fight Against Illegal Mining in Niger

Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Strengthen Fight Against Illegal Mining in Niger

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have commended the Nigerian Army for its continued cooperation in the fight against illegal mining following the arrest of 18 suspected illegal miners in Izom, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.

The suspects were apprehended by troops of the 102 Guard Battalion during a routine operation that uncovered unauthorised mining activities at the site.

Following established inter-agency procedures, the Army handed over the suspects and exhibits recovered from the operation 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 and patriotic, stressing that the operation demonstrated the military’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources.

“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,” Attah said.

Suspects Allegedly Operated Without Licences

Preliminary investigations by the Mining Marshals indicated that the suspects allegedly operated at the mining site without valid licences, permits or affiliation with any registered mining company.

Investigators also reportedly found no evidence of lawful mineral titles or authorisation issued by the relevant regulatory authorities.

Several items believed to have been used for the illegal mining activities were recovered, including motorcycles, pumping machines, crusher engines, communication devices and ₦2,468,750 in cash.

Attah reiterated the determination of the Mining Marshals, under the leadership of Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to intensify intelligence-driven operations against individuals and groups involved in the illegal exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

He assured legitimate stakeholders in the solid minerals sector that the Corps would continue enforcing the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act and protecting the country’s mineral wealth from unlawful exploitation.

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

The NSCDC Mining Marshals said investigations into the case have been concluded and the suspects are being processed for prosecution in accordance with relevant provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007.

The operation further highlights the growing collaboration between security and regulatory agencies in tackling illegal mining, protecting Nigeria’s natural resources and addressing activities considered harmful to the nation’s economy.  

Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Strengthen Fight Against Illegal Mining in Niger