The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested three suspects over alleged illegal sharp sand mining at Obiaja River in Idemili South Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, which also led to the impoundment of two tipper trucks and the recovery of excavation equipment, was carried out by operatives of the Corps’ Mines and Steel Development Unit.
The NSCDC said the operation was conducted in collaboration with the office of the Federal Mines Officer in Anambra State under the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.
The State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde, disclosed the development during a media briefing at the NSCDC State Command Headquarters in Awka.
According to him, the operation formed part of ongoing efforts by the Command to tackle unregulated mining activities and prevent the illegal exploitation of mineral resources in Anambra State.
Operatives Act on Credible Intelligence
Commandant Olatunde said the operation followed credible intelligence concerning alleged illegal mining activities at the river.
The site is located along the Nnobi-Ideani Junction-Uke Road and is popularly known by residents as Mmiri Obiaja or Mmiri Mgbo Obiaja in Nnobi.
He explained that operatives moved to the location on Wednesday, August 26, where three persons were allegedly found carrying out sharp sand mining activities without the required authorisation.
The suspects were identified as Patrick Anpue, 45, from Umuagu Village in Nnobi; Chidubem Ugammadu, 44, from Urumkpu Village in Umuoji; and Chukwuma Igwe, 47, from Umuanocha Village in Awka-Etiti.
All three communities are located within the affected areas of Anambra State.
The NSCDC said the suspects were arrested at the mining site during the operation.
Two Tipper Trucks Impounded
The operation also resulted in the recovery of equipment allegedly being used for excavation and sand mining.
According to the Command, two tipper trucks were impounded during the raid.
Other items recovered include six shovels and one wheelbarrow.
The equipment, the NSCDC said, was allegedly being used in the excavation and removal of sharp sand from the river.
Illegal sand mining in Anambra and other parts of Nigeria has remained a major concern because of its potential impact on the environment, roads, waterways and surrounding communities.
Unregulated excavation can contribute to erosion and land degradation, while activities carried out without the necessary approvals can also undermine efforts by authorities to properly regulate the solid minerals sector.
Suspects Allegedly Admit Operating Without Authorisation
Commandant Olatunde said preliminary findings indicated that the suspects did not have the required legal documentation to carry out mining activities at the site.
He said the three suspects allegedly admitted to engaging in mining operations without authorisation from the relevant government authorities.
The Commandant stressed that the operation was part of a wider effort to ensure that individuals and groups involved in mineral extraction comply with existing laws and regulations.
He added that the NSCDC would continue to work with relevant agencies to identify and stop unauthorised mining activities across the state.
The Corps is expected to continue strengthening collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and other stakeholders responsible for regulating mining operations.
Investigation Ongoing
The NSCDC said investigations into the matter are ongoing.
According to the Command, the suspects will be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
The Commandant also reiterated the commitment of the Corps to protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, including Nigeria’s solid mineral resources.
He warned individuals and groups allegedly involved in illegal sand mining and other activities that violate mining and environmental regulations to desist.
According to him, those found to be operating outside the law would face appropriate legal action.
NSCDC Calls for Public Support
The Anambra State Command also called on residents to support efforts to tackle illegal mining by reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
Commandant Olatunde urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could assist security agencies in identifying unauthorised mining sites.
He said public cooperation would remain important in protecting natural resources and preventing environmental damage associated with unregulated extraction.
The latest arrests underscore the growing attention being given to illegal mining activities and the enforcement of regulations governing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
As investigations continue, the NSCDC says it remains committed to protecting mineral resources and ensuring that those involved in unauthorised mining activities are held accountable in accordance with the law.
