In an ongoing effort to combat illegal mining activities, operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have apprehended five individuals suspected of involvement in unauthorized mining operations. The arrests were made following the discovery and seizure of three truckloads of assorted solid minerals believed to have been mined without the requisite licensing.
The arrested individuals comprise three truck drivers and two truck boys, apprehended along Maraba road in Ilorin, Kwara State, and Ogbomosho, Oyo State, between March 21 and 22, 2024. The EFCC’s intervention was prompted by actionable intelligence and diligent surveillance.
The suspects were intercepted while transporting solid minerals, including marble stone, white powder, lithium, and lepidolite, destined for commercial purposes in Shagamu and Alakija, situated in Ogun and Lagos States, respectively, without the necessary licensing documentation.
This recent operation follows a prior crackdown by the Ilorin Zonal Command on February 5, 2024, during which 41 individuals were arrested on suspicion of engaging in illegal mining activities. Additionally, 12 truckloads of assorted minerals, mined without proper authorization, were seized during the operation.
Pending the conclusion of investigations, the apprehended suspects will face charges in court as part of the EFCC’s commitment to enforcing legal standards and combating illicit activities within the mining sector.
