The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have commended the Nigerian Army for its cooperation in the fight against illegal mining following the arrest and handover of 18 suspected illegal miners in Niger State.

The suspects were apprehended at an illegal mining site in Izom, Gurara Local Government Area, by troops of the 102 Guard Battalion during a routine operation.

The Army subsequently handed the suspects and exhibits recovered from the site to the NSCDC Mining Marshals Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, in line with established inter-agency procedures.

The Commander of the NSCDC Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps John Onoja Attah, described the collaboration as exemplary and patriotic, saying it demonstrated the importance of inter-agency cooperation in 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.

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

Investigators also said the suspects were unable to provide evidence of lawful mineral titles or authorisation from the relevant regulatory authorities.

Several items allegedly used in the mining operation were recovered, including motorcycles, pumping machines, crusher engines and communication devices.

The operation also led to the recovery of ₦2,468,750 in cash.

Attah said the Mining Marshals remained committed to ensuring that individuals involved in illegal mining were brought to justice.

He added that the Corps, under the leadership of Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, would continue to deploy intelligence-driven enforcement measures against illegal operators in the mining sector.

The commander also assured stakeholders in the solid minerals industry that the Mining Marshals would continue enforcing the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act while protecting the country’s mineral resources from unlawful exploitation.

Also commenting on the operation, Abdul Ben of the Open Dialogue Initiative praised the Nigerian Army for what he described as a professional intervention.

He said the Army’s action would further strengthen efforts by security and regulatory agencies to curb illegal mining across the country.

The Mining Marshals said investigations had been concluded and the suspects were being processed for prosecution under the relevant provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007.