- Seized items include a Toyota Hilux van (reg. no. MUS 513 HU), two heavy-duty batteries, coal, and a motorcycle
- Operation occurred on August 24 at Ugwuonyeama hill base in Enugu following an NSCDC intelligence tip-off
The commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Muhammed Dada, announced that more than 40 individuals suspected of engaging in unauthorized coal mining were apprehended in Enugu.
Speaking to reporters in Enugu on Friday, Mr. Dada disclosed that the operation resulted in the confiscation of various tools such as pumping machines, diggers, head-pans, shovels, and four Hanvan G7 trucks lacking registration numbers.
Additionally, among the seized items were a Toyota Hilux van bearing the registration number MUS 513 HU, two heavy-duty batteries, a substantial quantity of coal, and a motorcycle.
According to Mr. Dada, the operation took place on Thursday, August 24, at the base of Ugwuonyeama hill in Enugu.
“The NSCDC’s intelligence team, acting on a tip-off, conducted a successful raid leading to the arrest of the 40 suspects involved in illegal coal mining at Ugwuonyeama,” he said.
Mr. Dada emphasized that the NSCDC would conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the issue and guarantee that those accountable for these actions are held accountable.
He issued a stern caution to individuals involved in unauthorized mining within the state, urging them to cease their activities immediately.
The commandant reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to working in conjunction with law-abiding citizens. He urged residents to contribute to the government’s endeavors to eradicate illegal activities by offering information that could contribute to their cessation.
“Those with valid clearance and legitimate mining operation licenses will be treated in accordance with the law.
“The NSCDC remains resolute in its actions, which underline its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s resources and preserving the integrity of its critical assets,” he said.
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