The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has arraigned 27 suspects before a competent court for their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities across parts of the state.
The suspects were reportedly arrested during a series of operations carried out by the command as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and protect the nation’s solid mineral resources.
According to the NSCDC, the suspects were found engaging in mining activities without the required licenses and authorizations as stipulated by Nigeria’s mining regulations. The agency said preliminary investigations linked the accused persons to unauthorized mineral extraction at various locations within Niger State.
Speaking on the development, the NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s drive to sanitize the mining sector and curb illegal exploitation of mineral resources. The command emphasized that illegal mining poses significant threats to national security, environmental sustainability, and government revenue generation.
The corps warned individuals and groups involved in unlawful mining operations to desist from such activities or face the full weight of the law. It further stressed that enforcement operations would continue across mining communities in the state to ensure compliance with established regulations.
The arraignment of the 27 suspects highlights the increasing efforts by security agencies to address the growing challenge of illegal mining in Nigeria. Authorities have repeatedly expressed concern over the activities of unauthorized miners, citing environmental degradation, loss of revenue, and security risks associated with illegal mining operations.
The defendants are expected to remain before the court as the prosecution presents its case and legal proceedings continue.
