Anambra Seals Illegal Mining Site In Uga, Arrests Seven

By Ebele Ezeh

The Anambra State Government has sealed an alleged illegal mining site in Uga, Aguata Local Government Area, and arrested seven persons following reports of continued mining activities despite directives from the State Mining Reform Committee.

The alleged operator, Osita Chukwuma of Blessed Egbogu Motors Limited, was arrested alongside six others identified as Samuel Igweka, Ifeanyi Daniel, Uchenna Umeaba, Okeke Sopuluchukwu, Chikaodili Okonkwo and Amaka Uba.

The four drivers were reportedly arrested with their tipper trucks and batteries, while Chikaodili Okonkwo was identified as a conductor and Amaka Uba as a sales representative.

The enforcement followed a distress report from Umudimisii Umuoru Village, Uga, where residents raised concerns over ongoing illegal mining activities and their alleged impact on the community.

According to the report, the activities had contributed to serious environmental threats, including gully erosion, mass failure and building collapse, with residents linking the situation to previous loss of lives in the area.

Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources and Chairman of the Anambra State Mining Reform Committee, Professor Charles Ofoegbu, condemned illegal mining activities and directed that the affected area be restored, including the recovery of its green vegetation.

Ofoegbu warned that if the mining site is reopened illegally, those involved would face prosecution.

He said the State Mining Reform Committee, working with the Ministries of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Environment and Physical Planning, would intensify enforcement and ensure compliance with regulations guiding sustainable mining and environmental protection.