The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ilorin Zonal Command, Kwara State, has confirmed the arrest of 13 suspected illegal miners operating in Kakafu village, in the Patigi Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement from the state agency’s spokesperson, Ayodele Babatunde, the suspects were arrested on Tuesday following a combined operation that was sparked by reliable information that EFCC agents had about some alleged unlicensed miners operating nearby.
The Federal Mines and Steel Development, according to Babatunde, coordinated the operation with the state command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
He said the illegal miners were arrested over alleged nonpayment of royalties to the Federal Government.
“The suspects are Buhari Hassan, Buba Mohammed, Yusuf Umar, Surajo Shehu, Abubakar Abdullahi, Salisu Mohammed, Quadri Sulaiman, Nwafor Chinonso, Abdullahi Isa, Mustapha Mohammed, and Jafaru Abdullahi,” he declared.
Five trucks that were completely loaded with various types of solid minerals were found on the suspects. According to preliminary investigations, the accused were not paying royalties to the federal government as compelled by law.
“When the current investigation is over, the suspects will soon be charged in court.”
