According to the Commandant, Mr. Muhammed Dada, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) detained no fewer than 40 suspected illicit coal miners in Enugu.
Speaking to reporters on Friday in Enugu, Dada claimed that items found during the operation included four unregistered Hanvan G7 trucks, pumping equipment, diggers, head-pans, and shovels.
Other items include a motorcycle, a Toyota Hilux van with the license plate MUS 513 HU, two large batteries, a significant quantity of coal, and so forth.
The operation, according to Dada, happened on Thursday, August 24, at the foot of Ugwuonyeama hill in Enugu.
The commandant described the act as a serious economic sabotage, adding that the arrest underlined NSCDC’s role as the lead agency entrusted with safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure.
NSCDC Detains 21 Over Illicit Miners Cross River Communities
“The NSCDC’s intelligence team, acting on a tip-off, conducted a successful raid leading to the arrest of the 40 suspects involved in illegal coal mining at Ugwuonyeama,” he said.
Dada said that NSCDC would thoroughly investigate the matter and “ensure that those responsible for these activities face the consequences of their actions”.
He also warned individuals engaging in illegal mining activities in the state to stop immediately.
The commandant reiterated NSCDC’s resolve to collaborate with law-abiding citizens, urging residents to support government efforts in curbing these illegal activities by providing information that could aid in ending them.
“Those with valid clearance and legitimate mining operation licenses will be treated in accordance with the law.
“The NSCDC remains resolute in its actions, which underline it commitment to safeguarding the nation’s resources and preserving the integrity of its critical assets,” he said.
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