An Abuja Federal High Court has ordered the remand of eight Chinese nationals and a Nigerian in Kuje Prison for their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. The defendants were arrested at Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, within Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State. This action is part of the federal government’s intensified efforts to combat illegal mining and safeguard Nigeria’s mineral resources.
The suspects were apprehended by the Mining Marshals, a security outfit developed from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). This unit is specifically tasked with eliminating illegal mining activities and ensuring the mining environment is safe for legitimate operators. Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, stated that the defendants, including Shen Yongchan, Mo Baixian, Xiao Bin, Huang Xu Fa, Ma Bingli, Yang Jian, Li Peiyin, Que Wenyong, Hiyk Edward Desmond, and Wanda Company Limited, were taken into custody by the Mining Marshals during an operation in the Lokpaukwu community.
Upon their arrest, the suspects were brought before Justice J.K Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The prosecution filed a three-count charge against the defendants, which included mining without lawful authority and obstruction of lawful mining operations. The judge, after hearing the arguments from both the prosecution and the defense, ordered the remand of the suspects at Kuje Correctional Centre pending the continuation of the trial.
The establishment of the Mining Marshals is a significant component of Dr. Dele Alake’s 7-point agenda, aimed at cleaning up the mining sector. The operation, codenamed “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” is an initiative designed to tackle the pervasive problem of illegal mining across Nigeria. Since its inception in March 2024, the Mining Marshals have arrested over 300 illegal miners, with approximately 133 currently undergoing prosecution. The force, led by ACC John Onoja, is composed of 2,570 dedicated personnel who are working to eradicate the activities of criminal syndicates in mining areas
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Tomori highlighted the commitment of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development to strengthen the operations of the Mining Marshals. This includes the integration of advanced technology and the provision of additional equipment to ensure maximum efficiency. The objective is to guarantee that Nigeria reaps the full benefits of its mineral wealth while creating a secure environment for genuine investors in the mining sector.
In a detailed statement, Tomori emphasized the necessity of such stringent measures. He noted that illegal mining not only robs the nation of its resources but also poses significant environmental and security risks. By reinforcing the capabilities of the Mining Marshals, the government aims to protect the nation’s mineral resources and foster a more regulated and transparent mining sector.
The trial of the Chinese and Nigerian suspects marks a pivotal moment in the government’s crackdown on illegal mining activities. The suspects, who face serious charges, will remain in custody as the legal proceedings continue. This case serves as a stern warning to other illegal operators that the government is resolute in its efforts to bring offenders to justice and restore order to Nigeria’s mining industry.
By investing in advanced technologies and training for the Mining Marshals, the government seeks to create a sustainable and profitable mining industry that benefits all Nigerians. The ongoing trial is a testament to the government’s unwavering dedication to tackling illegal mining and ensuring that the nation’s mineral resources are harnessed for the greater good.
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