The Anambra Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has arrested four suspects involved in illegal mining activities in the state.

NSCDC Commandant in the state, Olatunde Maku, parading the suspects on Friday in Awka, said they were arrested on Thursday at Ogbunike in Oyi Local Government Area.

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According to Maku, the arrest was in collaboration with Federal Mines Officers of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in charge of Anambra.

He said that the team arrested the following suspects: Nnamani Chidubem, Ekemezie Ifeanyi, Okolie Patrick, and Onyedika Somtoo.

“These suspects were caught mining Laterite without approval from the relevant authorities, causing environmental degradation in the area.

“Exhibits recovered from the suspects include a truck-load of Laterite, with registration number LAGOS T- 13038 LA, nine heavy-duty batteries, one heavy duty hydraulic jack and four fuel filters.

“This arrest is an indication and a strong signal to those illegal miners that it is no longer business as usual,” he added.

The NSCDC commandant said that illegal mining constituted economic sabotage and posed environmental risks in the state.

He commended the Solid Minerals Unit for sustaining efforts aimed at stamping out illegal miners in the state.

Also speaking, Mr Henry Bolarinwa of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development urged miners to operate with valid licenses and in approved mining sites.

Bolarinwa said the warning was necessary to block revenue leakages and prevent environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.

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