Foreign Nationals Arrested in Nasarawa Mining Raid

Several foreign nationals and Nigerian citizens have been arrested over alleged involvement in illegal mining in Amba Community, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

Security officials made the arrests on 17 July during an operation led by Nasarawa State Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe. The operation aimed to stop illegal mining activities and improve compliance within Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

During the raid, security operatives recovered cartons containing suspected illegally mined minerals. They also seized equipment, including CCTV cameras, which authorities believe were used to monitor activities and avoid detection by security agencies.

Dr. Akabe said the operation showed the government’s commitment to protecting Nasarawa’s mineral resources and enforcing mining laws across the state. He added that tackling illegal mining remains important for ensuring proper management of the country’s natural resources.

The suspects will be transferred to the relevant authorities for further investigation. If found responsible, they may face prosecution under existing regulations.

The arrests form part of wider efforts by authorities to address illegal mining operations and strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s growing mineral resources industry. Officials have continued to highlight the need for lawful mining practices to protect communities, improve economic benefits, and prevent misuse of valuable resources.

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement and whether further action will follow.

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