The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 15 suspects and impounded eight trucks loaded with illegally mined solid minerals in a series of coordinated operations across the state.
State Commandant Saidi Akintayo, who announced the development on Monday, described the operation as a major breakthrough in the agency’s efforts to curb economic sabotage and protect national assets.
According to Akintayo, the arrests followed intelligence-led operations carried out on November 15 and 16. During the operation, six trucks laden with illegally mined kyline clay were intercepted along the Benin–Sapele Road after the drivers failed to present valid authorisation documents. Nine suspects were subsequently arrested.
Those arrested include Tobilola Moses, Laseisi Adesegun, Olayinka Dimeji, Joshua Ojo, Peter Oliga, Owolabi Gabriel, Solomon Shedrach, Adela Tannimawo, and Ibrahim Habib.
Lithium Trucks Intercepted
In a separate operation on the same day, the NSCDC Monitoring and Surveillance Team intercepted two trucks transporting lithium along the Ogbemudia Farm axis of the Auchi Road.
Akintayo said the documentation submitted by the drivers was “completely irreconcilable,” leading to the arrest of additional suspects—drivers Jimoh Mahmood and Abubakar Aminu, alongside their assistants Abdulmutallib Ibrahim, Nafiu Ibrahim, Mubarak Abdul, and AbdulKareem Nasir.
Suspected Stolen Items Recovered
Earlier on Saturday, NSCDC operatives apprehended a man identified as Hassan Rufai near the CCA Construction axis for allegedly conveying suspected stolen items, including a solar battery, generator, plasma television and inverter chargers.
Illegal Mining ‘Destructive to the Economy’
Commandant Akintayo condemned illegal mining as a destructive practice that contributes to environmental degradation, revenue loss and rising insecurity.
He confirmed that all arrested suspects and the impounded vehicles have been moved to the NSCDC exhibit yard for further investigation and subsequent prosecution.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, reiterating the command’s commitment to protecting national assets and stamping out illegal mining across Edo State.
