NSCDC busts illegal gold mining site in Abuja, arrest two

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), in collaboration with Mining Marshals, have dismantled an alleged illegal gold mining operation in Abuja's Gwagwalada Area Council and apprehended two suspects. The operation was initiated following credible intelligence and a petition highlighting unlawful mining activities within a valid exploration license area.

Mining Marshals revealed that a specialized enforcement unit was deployed to apprehend the suspects at the active gold extraction site. Preliminary investigations unveiled that the mining activities were transpiring beyond the approved mineral title area, prompting concerns over regulatory breaches and unauthorized exploitation of Nigeria's mineral resources.

The operation has raised alarms about potential environmental degradation and security risks in the region, given previous resident reports on the impact of unregulated mining nearby. The suspects are currently aiding investigators, while efforts are focused on identifying and apprehending others involved in the operation. Additionally, investigators are scrutinizing the circumstances surrounding the site activities and potential violations of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.

NSCDC Commander John Onoja Attah expressed a stern warning that no part of the country will be a refuge for illegal miners, emphasizing that enforcement actions aim to ensure compliance with the law as the only viable path for mining sector operators. Under NSCDC's leadership, inter-agency cooperation, intelligence, and enforcement efforts are being bolstered to restore order, accountability, and investor confidence in the solid minerals sector.

Attah stressed that violators will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted as per the law, highlighting the Mining Marshals' commitment to dismantling illegal mining networks nationwide.