The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Zamfara State Command has seized three trucks loaded with precious stones. The Commandant of the zone, Muhammed Muazu made his announcement at a press conference in Gusau on Monday, saying a truck loaded with precious stones was intercepted in Gusau en route to Sokoto and the drivers had no legal documents for security clearance.
The commandant said-
“We have no problem with the drivers or vehicles, rather the owners were to provide necessary evidence that will permit them to engage in the business.”
According to him, for every person or corporate body to take part in the transaction of any mineral deposits must meet up with following requirements;
- A licence to possess and purchase minerals
- Evidence of royalty payment
- Mineral title if the solid mineral is coming from a legal source
- Agent movement permit and mineral buying centre certificate.
Muazu also maintained that these documents must be presented. If not, the drivers and whosoever was involved would be prosecuted. Furthermore, the truck and its content would be impounded by the Federal Government as the law stipulates.
He added alongside these, that the drivers have an ultimatum of seven days to provide legal documents for engaging in the act else they would be prosecuted.
The commandant further warned truck drivers to avoid conveying any mineral resources. Except if the owner provided legal documents to them.
Subsequently, he called on the National Union of Road Transport Workers to sensitise their members. Especially on the danger and legal implications of moving mineral resources without the necessary documents of the law by the Federal Ministry of Mining and Solid Minerals.
cc: Punch Ng
