By Chinedum Treasure
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has sealed two illegal mining sites at Atani in Ogbaru Local Government Area and Iyienu, Ogidi, in Idemili North LGA.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development as part of efforts to curb illegal mining and protect the state’s mineral resources.
The NSCDC Head of Media and Tactical Operations, SC Okadigbo Edwin, who disclosed this in a statement on behalf of the State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde, said the operation followed intelligence gathering and surveillance.
According to him, investigations showed that operators at the sites lacked valid documentation authorising their mining activities.
He said the enforcement team, led by the Mines and Solid Minerals Development Unit headed by Assistant Commandant of Corps Ochie Paul, raided the sites alongside Federal Mines Officer, Engr. Edet Anthony.
“On sighting the enforcement team, the suspected illegal miners abandoned their equipment and fled into the nearby bushes. However, various exhibits were recovered at both locations before the sites were sealed,” Okadigbo said.
At the Atani sharp sand mining site, operatives recovered a long shovel, two 25-litre gallons of gasoline, an excavator battery and four litres of power steering oil.
At Iyienu, Ogidi, the team recovered four shovels, two sledge hammers, a cutlass, three rakes, four hand hammers, two chisels and a small sieve.
The NSCDC warned illegal miners that fleeing during raids would not prevent their eventual arrest and prosecution.
Okadigbo said the operation demonstrated the Corps’ commitment to protecting natural resources, preserving the environment and safeguarding communities from the dangers associated with illegal mining.
He added that land degradation, erosion threats and violations of environmental regulations remained serious concerns requiring sustained enforcement across the state.
Tags: NSCDC, Illegal Mining, Anambra State, Ogbaru, Idemili North
