The federal government has charged seven individuals, including two Chinese nationals, with illegal mining activities following their arrest in Kogi and Ondo states.
The suspects were apprehended during a recent operation conducted by the Mining Marshals, a specialized unit formed to combat illegal mining practices in Nigeria.
The operation, named “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” took place in the Ikah Community of Ankpa LGA, Kogi State, where the Chinese nationals and a Nigerian were caught engaging in unauthorized mining activities.
Additionally, the Mining Marshals raided an illegal gold mining site in the Ogunlepa, Oluwa Forest Reserve, Odigbo LGA of Ondo State.
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Four individuals were arrested at the site and admitted to operating without the necessary licenses.
All seven suspects have been charged to the Federal High Court, Abuja.
The federal government has reiterated its commitment to eliminating illegal mining in the country and has pledged to strengthen the operations of the Mining Marshals with technology and satellite monitoring.