Authorities in Anambra State have apprehended a Chinese national and five others for their involvement in illegal mining activities. The suspects were arrested in the Awka North area of the state, where they were allegedly mining without proper authorization. Their operations, according to officials, violated Nigerian mining regulations and posed significant environmental risks.
The arrest followed a joint operation conducted by the Anambra State Government and security agencies. Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odimegwu, revealed that the suspects had been operating without the required permits, exploiting mineral resources unlawfully. He emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining to protect the environment and ensure compliance with national laws.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the group was extracting mineral resources for export, bypassing both environmental safeguards and revenue channels. Authorities confiscated heavy-duty equipment and other tools used in the mining operation. This seizure is part of the government’s broader efforts to clamp down on unregulated activities in the mining sector.
The suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded. Officials have assured that all parties involved, including local collaborators, will face the full weight of the law. This move, they hope, will serve as a deterrent to others engaging in similar illegal activities.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for illegal mining and environmental degradation. He called for stricter enforcement of mining regulations and urged citizens to report unauthorized activities in their communities. The government has also pledged to support legal mining enterprises to ensure sustainable resource management.
