EFCC Arrests Four Chinese, 27 Nigerians for Illegal Mining in Jos
EFCC Arrests Illegal Miners in Jos Following Credible Intel
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested four Chinese nationals and 27 Nigerians for their involvement in illegal mining activities in Jos, Plateau State.
The arrests took place on Saturday, March 9, 2025, at Jiasheng Nigeria Limited, a company located at Dura Rayfield, Mangu Road, Jos. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, acting on credible intelligence, launched a raid on the premises and apprehended the suspects.
This development was confirmed by Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s spokesperson, in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja.
Illegal Mining Operation Uncovered in Jos
According to the EFCC, the four Chinese nationals and 27 Nigerians arrested were part of a network engaged in illegal mining activities within the state. Some of the Nigerian suspects were found in possession of unprocessed solid minerals, which are believed to have been illegally mined from different locations.
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“The arrest was a sequel to credible intelligence linking the company to illegal mining activities in the state,” Oyewale stated.
During the operation, the EFCC recovered several exhibits, including:
- A truck loaded with eight bags of processed monazite
- Each bag weighing 1000 kg
- Estimated value of N4 million per bag
The presence of these minerals at the company’s premises raises questions about the legality of their operations and their involvement in the illicit mining sector.
EFCC to Prosecute Suspects Following Investigation
The EFCC has confirmed that investigations into the illegal mining operation in Jos are still ongoing. However, the agency assured the public that all suspects will be charged to court once investigations are completed.
“The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded,” Oyewale added.
Illegal Mining in Nigeria: A Growing Concern
Illegal mining has been a major economic and environmental issue in Nigeria, particularly in states rich in solid minerals like Plateau, Zamfara, and Kaduna. The practice not only leads to loss of government revenue but also causes severe environmental degradation.
The EFCC and other law enforcement agencies have ramped up efforts to curb illegal mining operations, which are often linked to foreign companies and local syndicates operating without proper documentation.
Government’s Crackdown on Illegal Mining
The Nigerian government has recently tightened regulations and increased monitoring of mining activities to combat illegal extraction. Authorities warn that companies engaging in illegal mining will face legal consequences, including seizure of assets, heavy fines, and imprisonment.
The EFCC has also urged Nigerians to report suspicious mining activities to help the government protect the country’s natural resources and prevent economic sabotage.
Conclusion
The arrest of four Chinese nationals and 27 Nigerians in Jos highlights the Nigerian government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining. With investigations still ongoing, authorities have reassured Nigerians that all suspects will be brought to justice.
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