Federal Capital Territory (FCT) NSCDC Apprehends 54 Suspected Offenders for Illegal Mining and Mast Vandalism

• NSCDC FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, announces arrest of 51 suspects for illegal mining and 3 for mast vandalism
• Mast vandalism suspects apprehended in Giri lacked approval; 51 illegal miners nabbed in Gwagwalada, lacked licenses or company registration

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operating in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has made significant strides in combating illicit activities, with the arrest of 51 individuals suspected of illegal mining and three others accused of telecommunication mast vandalism.

At a press briefing held at the command’s headquarters, NSCDC FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu revealed that the apprehension of the mast vandalism suspects was facilitated by the vigilant efforts of the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Unit, acting on a tip-off regarding dismantling activities in the Giri area.

Highlighting the importance of obtaining approval before mast decommissioning, Odumosu emphasized the NSCDC’s role as the primary agency responsible for safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure.

During interrogation by the command’s Anti-vandal Unit, the suspects failed to produce any form of approval or proper identification, raising suspicions about their activities and affiliations.

In a parallel operation, 51 individuals were nabbed in the Gwagwalada area for engaging in illegal mining operations. Despite being questioned, none of the suspects could provide evidence of operating under a registered company or possessing exploration and mining licenses.

Odumosu underscored the detrimental impact of illegal mining on the environment, citing instances of soil encroachment, environmental degradation, and erosion, rendering affected areas unsuitable for agricultural and human use.

Following thorough investigations, the apprehended individuals will face legal proceedings aimed at addressing their offences and serving as a deterrent to others contemplating similar actions.

Evidence recovered from the suspects included dismantled metal mast components, pumping machines, alleged quantities of gold dust, pumping hoses, fuel, and digging tools.

The NSCDC remains committed to upholding the law and ensuring the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, contributing to a safer and more secure environment for all residents of the FCT.