By Chinedum Treasure
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested three suspects over alleged illegal mining of sharp sand at Obiaja River along the Nnobi–Ideani Junction–Uke Road in Idemili South Local Government Area.
State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, said the suspects were arrested on Wednesday, August 26, by operatives of the Command’s Mines and Steel Development Unit in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer in Anambra State.
He said the operation followed credible intelligence on illegal mining activities at Mmiri Obiaja, popularly known as Mmiri Mgbo Obiaja Nnobi.
The suspects were identified as Patrick Anpue, 45; Chidubem Ugammadu, 44; and Chukwuma Igwe, 47.
The NSCDC recovered two tippers with registration numbers XA 653 GBZ and GDD 423 XB, six shovels and a wheelbarrow used for excavation.
According to Maku, the suspects confessed to mining at the site without the required authorisation or legal documentation.
He said they would be charged after investigation, warning illegal miners to desist from the practice or face the law.
The command also urged residents to report suspected illegal mining activities to the NSCDC.
Tags: NSCDC, Illegal Mining, Anambra
