Anambra Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), raided an illegal mining site and seized sand dredging machine in Anambra.
NSCDC Commandant, Mr Olatunde Maku, told newsmen in Awka on Monday that the site was located at the Omambala River in Ifite-Ogwari, Ayamelum Local Government Area.
Maku said that the raid was part of ongoing efforts to reinforce the commitment to combating illegal mining.
He said the operation conducted by the Mines and Steel Development Unit of NSCDC was in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer; Mr Edet Oku.
“The raid was carried out based on credible intelligence.
“On May 30, the command swooped in on an Illegal mining site located at Omambala River Ifite-Ogwari.
“As the team approached the site, the suspected illegal miners fled the scene, leaving behind some of their mining equipments.
“The items recovered included a dredger, two dredging engine pumps, 18 drums, five suction pipes, eight plastic discharge pipes, three jerry cans, a plastic bucket and a funnel.
“”We have sealed the mining site and launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects,” he said.
Maku stated that preliminary investigations showed Mr. Ike Nweke of Trillike Investment Ltd. held the license for the site.
He added that unauthorised miners, allegedly led by one Uche Joshua Okafor, had taken over the site.
“The NSCDC is taking decisive action to protect legitimate title holders by sealing illegal sites, stopping revenue losses, and promoting environmental sustainability,” he said.
“We have launched a full investigation to uncover the scope of the suspects’ activities and identify any accomplices.
“We will prosecute all offenders once the investigation is complete.”
Maku reaffirmed NSCDC’s dedication to enforcing the law and safeguarding the nation’s mineral resources, warning illegal miners to desist or face legal consequences.
