Nigeria arraign 8 foreign nationals for illegal mining
The government of Nigeria has initiated legal proceedings against nine individuals, comprising eight Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, for engaging in illegal mining activities in the Lokpaukwu community of Umuchieze, Abia State.
The arrests were made by the Mining Marshals, a specialized security unit established by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, as part of efforts to reform the mining sector under “Operation Hayakin Kogo.”
Charges
The suspects have been charged with offenses that include mining without lawful authority and obstructing lawful mining operations. Their trial commenced before Justice J.K Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Following arguments from both prosecution and defense, the defendants have been remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre until the next court session.
Minister Alake emphasized the importance of the mining marshals in cleansing the mining sector and ensuring Nigeria optimally benefits from its mineral resources. He expressed commitment to bolstering the marshals’ operations with advanced technology and additional equipment, aiming to maximize the country’s gains from its natural mineral wealth.
Mining in Nigeria has the potential to significantly contribute to the country’s economic development. The mining industry in Nigeria has historically been dominated by the oil and gas sector, leaving other mineral resources largely untapped. Nevertheless, Nigeria is rich in mineral resources such as coal, limestone, tin, gold, and tantalite, among others.
