NSCDC shuts down two illegal mining sites in Anambra

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra has shut down two illegal mining sites. These sites are located in Atani, Ogbaru Local Government Area, and Iyienu, Ogidi, in Idemili North Local Government Area.

The command said this operation was done with the Anambra State Federal Mines Officer from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. This is part of their work to protect Nigeria's mineral resources and stop illegal mining.

Okadigbo Edwin, who is the Head of Media and Tactical Operations, shared this news in a statement on Friday.

Edwin explained that the operation came after gathering intelligence and observing the sites. They found out that the miners at the laterite/sandstone and sharp sand sites did not have proper documents for their activities.

The statement said, "The Mines and Solid Minerals Development Unit led by Assistant Commandant of Corps, Ochie Paul, along with Anambra State Federal Mines Officer, Edet Anthony, started an investigation into the actions of these illegal miners and raided the sites."

"When the enforcement team arrived, the suspected illegal miners ran away, leaving their tools behind and hiding in the bushes. However, we recovered various items at both sites before sealing them."

At Atani, Ogbaru LGA, the operation happened around 1:04 PM at an illegal sharp sand site. Items found included one long shovel, two 25-litre gallons of gasoline, one large excavator battery, and four litres of power steering oil.

Later, the team went to Iyienu, Ogidi in Idemili North LGA at about 4:45 PM to seal an illegal laterite/sandstone mining site. They recovered four shovels, two sledge hammers, one cutlass, three rakes, four hand hammers, two chisels, and one small sieve.

Edwin said operations would keep going across Anambra State. He warned illegal miners that running away during security raids would not protect them from being caught and prosecuted.

He added that this operation shows the professionalism of the corps’ personnel. He warned that the government will not accept actions that harm the mining sector, damage the environment, or threaten public infrastructure.

The statement also mentioned that the State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, praised the joint enforcement team for protecting natural resources, preserving the environment, and safeguarding communities affected by mining.

"He pointed out that land degradation, erosion threats, and serious violations of environmental rules are risks to lives, property, and public infrastructure, which called for immediate action," the statement said.