Security operatives have arrested several Chinese nationals and Nigerian suspects during a raid on alleged illegal mining sites in Amba community, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The operation, carried out on Friday, was led by the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, as part of the state government’s renewed efforts to tackle illegal mining and protect its mineral resources.
Also present during the enforcement exercise was the Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Danladi Jatau, alongside other senior government officials.
During the raid, security personnel confiscated cartons containing suspected mineral resources, closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and other mining equipment allegedly used in the illegal operations.
Speaking after the operation, Akabe said the state government had repeatedly warned against illegal mining but that some operators had continued to flout the directives.
He explained that the visit was aimed at assessing the situation on the ground while ensuring that those violating the law were apprehended and brought to justice.
The deputy governor expressed concern over the growing presence of foreign nationals allegedly engaging in mining activities without the necessary legal authorisation.
According to him, although the regulation of solid minerals falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Government, the state has a duty to protect its communities and ensure that mining activities do not threaten environmental sustainability or the well-being of residents.
“As a responsible government, we cannot stand by while individuals engage in illegal activities within our territory. Every business must operate within the confines of the law,” he said.
Speaking through an interpreter, some of the Chinese nationals reportedly told officials that they had been mining in the community since last year, claiming they were working on behalf of employers based in Abuja.
The latest arrests come weeks after the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals arraigned 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians before a Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged illegal lithium mining in Nasarawa State.