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Three Chinese Nationals Arrested Over Illegal Mining in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
The suspects were apprehended during a security operation led by the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, at an illegal mining site on Friday, July 17.
During the operation, security personnel reportedly recovered suspected mineral resources packed in cartons, CCTV cameras, and several other items believed to have been used in carrying out the unauthorized mining activities.
The recovered materials have been taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation.
Addressing journalists after the raid, Deputy Governor Akabe said he personally led the enforcement exercise following repeated reports that mining activities were continuing despite an earlier directive by the state government suspending operations at the site.
He explained that he visited the location to confirm the reports and expressed concern that the government’s order had allegedly been ignored.
Akabe questioned how foreign nationals without the necessary legal documentation were able to engage in mining operations within the state, stressing that the government would not tolerate illegal activities and would continue to enforce the law.
The deputy governor noted that although mining is under the exclusive legislative authority of the Federal Government, the Nasarawa State Government remains committed to protecting the interests of host communities while maintaining law and order.
He also stated that no agreement had been reached with the host community regarding corporate social responsibility commitments or environmental impact assessments before mining activities allegedly commenced at the site.
According to Akabe, everyone found culpable will face prosecution, while mining operations at the location will remain suspended pending the conclusion of ongoing litigation involving the site.
He further appealed to residents to continue supporting the government’s efforts to promote peace, security, and stability across Nasarawa State.
According to authorities, the arrested Chinese nationals, speaking through an interpreter, claimed they had been working at the mining site since last year on behalf of their employers based in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Authorities said investigations into the matter are ongoing and assured that anyone found to have violated the law would be prosecuted accordingly.
