At least 40 suspected illegal coal miners have been arrested in Enugu State by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, this was disclosed by the State Commandant, Mr Muhammed Dada, while speaking with journalists on Friday in Enugu, Dada, noting that during the operation items recovered included pumping machines, diggers, head-pans, shovels, and four Hanvan G7 trucks without registration numbers.
Others are a Toyota Hilux van with registration number MUS 513 HU, two heavy-duty batteries, a substantial amount of coal, and a motorcycle.
Dada asserted that the operation took place on Thursday, Aug. 24, at the base of Ugwuonyeama hill in Enugu.
The commandant described the act as a serious economic sabotage, stating that the arrest indicated NSCDC’s role as the lead agency entrusted with safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure.
“The NSCDC’s intelligence team, acting on a tip-off, conducted a successful raid leading to the arrest of the 40 suspects involved in illegal coal mining at Ugwuonyeama,” he said.
Dada further said that NSCDC would thoroughly investigate the matter and “ensure that those responsible for these activities face the consequences of their actions”.
While admonishing individuals engaging in illegal mining activities in the state to stop immediately, Dada said NSCDC would collaborate with law-abiding citizens, urging residents to support government efforts in curbing these illegal activities by providing information that could aid in ending them.
“Those with valid clearance and legitimate mining operation licenses will be treated in accordance with the law.
“The NSCDC remains resolute in its actions, which underline it commitment to safeguarding the nation’s resources and preserving the integrity of its critical assets,” he said.
