NSCDC Arrests 15 Illegal Mining Suspects, Seizes Eight Trucks in Edo

The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested 15 suspects for alleged illegal mining and impounded eight trucks loaded with unlawfully mined solid minerals during a series of coordinated operations across the state.

In a statement on Monday, State Commandant Saidi Akintayo announced the arrests, saying that the operation was in furtherance of the fight against economic sabotage and a major milestone in securing Edo’s natural resources. Akintayo said the suspected illegal miners were arrested in an intelligence-led operation conducted between 15 and 16 November in which six trucks laden with illegally mined Kyline clay were intercepted along the Benin–Sapele Road.

According to Akintayo, the drivers and their assistants were unable to provide genuine documents for the minerals they were conveying, which then led to the arrest of nine suspects. Those detained are Tobilola Moses, Laseisi Adesegun, Olayinka Dimeji, Joshua Ojo, Peter Oliga, Owolabi Gabriel, Solomon Shedrach, Adela Tannimawo, and Ibrahim Habib.

The commandant condemned illegal mining as a destructive economic crime, which drains government revenue, fuels environmental damage, and adds to the insecurity in the state. He said the suspects and the impounded trucks have been moved into the NSCDC exhibit yard for further investigation before prosecution.

Akintayo also warned that the command would not tolerate practices that jeopardize national assets and emphasized strict adherence to mining regulations. He further urged residents to be vigilant and report suspicious activities, saying community cooperation is key to addressing illegal mining and ensuring public safety. He restated the commitment of the command to sustained intelligence-driven operations and other proactive strategies at stemming illegal mining across Edo State.