NSCDC Arrests Three Over Illegal Sand Mining In Anambra, Impounds Two Tippers

By Chibuzo Obidike

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Anambra State Command, has arrested three suspects over alleged illegal sharp sand mining at Obiaja River along the Nnobi, Ideani Junction, Uke Road in Idemili South Local Government Area.

The suspects, identified as Patrick Anpue, 45, Chidubem Ugammadu, 44, and Chukwuma Igwe, 47, were arrested on Wednesday, August 26, during an operation by the NSCDC Mines and Steel Development Unit in collaboration with the Federal Mines Office.

State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde, said the operation followed credible intelligence on unregulated mining activities at Mmiri Obiaja, popularly known as Mmiri Mgbo Obiaja Nnobi.

Two tippers, six shovels and a wheelbarrow were recovered from the site. The suspects reportedly admitted carrying out the mining activities without the required authorisation or legal documentation.

Commandant Maku said investigation is ongoing and the suspects would be charged to court after its conclusion. He warned illegal miners to desist from exploiting the state’s mineral resources, while urging residents to report suspicious mining activities to the NSCDC.