The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) apprehended 40 suspected illicit coal miners in Enugu, according to the Commandant, Mr Muhammed Dada.
Dada told reporters in Enugu on Friday that equipment seized during the operation included pumping machinery, diggers, head-pans, shovels, and four Hanvan G7 vehicles with no registration numbers.
A Toyota Hilux vehicle with the registration number MUS 513 HU, two heavy-duty batteries, a considerable amount of coal and a motorbike are among the other items.
The operation took place on Thursday, August 24, near the base of Ugwuonyeama hill in Enugu, according to Dada.
The crime was termed as significant economic sabotage by the commandant, who said that the arrest highlighted the NSCDC’s position as the primary agency responsible with preserving important national assets and infrastructure.
“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,” according to him.
Dada stated that the NSCDC will conduct a thorough investigation and “ensure that those responsible for these activities face the consequences of their actions.”
He also advised everyone involved in illicit mining in the state to halt immediately.
The commander reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to working with law-abiding individuals, encouraging them to assist the government in combating unlawful activities by sharing information that might aid in their abolition.
He stated:
“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.”
cc: Vanguard Ng
