NSCDC arrests 15 suspected illegal miners in Edo

Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have arrested 15 suspects for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities in Egbetua Community, Ososo in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo.

Mr. Gbenga Agun, State Commandant of NSCDC, told newsmen on Thursday in Benin that the suspects were arrested at a gold mining site in Ode Forest by operatives in the Auchi Area Command of the corps on Jan. 27.

Agun noted that it was the statutory responsibility of the corps to protect lives, public assets and solid minerals deposits across the country.

READ ALSO:Customs confiscates N199m smuggled PMS in Adamawa, Taraba

The commandant warned other illegal miners in the state to desist from such acts, asserting that the command was poised to flush out criminal elements in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the illegal gold mining site was discovered in the community in mid 2024, where hundreds of miners were seen carrying out illegal activities.