NSCDC seals two illegal mining sites in Anambra crackdown

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has taken action against illegal mining operations by sealing two sites in Atani, Ogbaru Local Government Area, and Iyienu, Ogidi, in Idemili North Local Government Area. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to protect Nigeria's mineral resources and combat illicit mining activities.

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The Mines and Solid Minerals Development Unit headed by Assistant Commandant of Corps, Ochie Paul, jointly with Anambra State Federal Mines Officer, Edet Anthony, launched an investigation into the activities of these illegal miners and raided the sites.

The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development's Anambra State Federal Mines Officer, followed intelligence gathering and surveillance. It revealed that the operators of the laterite/sandstone and sharp sand sites were conducting activities without valid authorization. Upon the arrival of the enforcement team, suspected illegal miners fled the sites, leaving behind various equipment and exhibits.

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On sighting the enforcement team, the suspected illegal miners escaped, leaving behind equipment and fleeing into the nearby bushes. However, various exhibits were recovered at both locations before the sites were sealed.

Recovered items at the Atani site included shovels, gasoline, and excavator batteries. At the Iyienu site, authorities seized shovels, sledgehammers, a cutlass, rakes, hammers, chisels, and a sieve. The NSCDC has vowed to continue operations across Anambra State, warning that fleeing during raids will not prevent arrest and prosecution. The corps emphasized that such activities undermine the mining sector, degrade the environment, and threaten public infrastructure, signaling a zero-tolerance policy.

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He noted that the level of land degradation, erosion threats, and flagrant violations of environmental regulations, which pose serious risks to lives, property, and public infrastructure, necessitated the swift action.