The Federal Government has arraigned eight chinese nationals for illegal mining activities in Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, within Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
In a statement by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development , Segun Tomori, the suspects, including eight (8) Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, were recently apprehended by the Mining Marshals, an elite security outfit crafted from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The Mining Marshals codenamed “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” is tasked with the responsibility of ridding the mining sector of illegal operators and is the brainchild of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.
According to the statement, trial of the suspects had began before Justice J.K Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
It states that the prosecution filed a 3-count charge, bordering on mining without lawful authority, obstruction of lawful mining operations amongst others.
Upon hearing the pleas and arguments from both sides, the defendants were remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre until the adjourned date for the continuation of the trial.
The statement expresses the Minister ’s commitment to strengthen the operations of the Mining Marshals through the infusion of technology and more equipment to ultimately ensure that the nation reaps maximum benefits from its God-given mineral resources.
The Mining Marshals, led by ACC John Onoja, comprise a 2,570-strong force dedicated to prevent the nefarious activities of criminal syndicates in mining areas across the country.
