NSCDC seals two suspected illegal mining sites in Anambra

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has sealed two suspected illegal mining sites in Ogbaru and Idemili North Local Government Areas as part of intensified efforts to curb unauthorised mining and protect the state’s mineral resources.

The enforcement operation was conducted in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer in Anambra State under the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, following intelligence gathering and surveillance of mining activities at the locations.

The sites were located at Atani in Ogbaru LGA, where sharp sand was being mined, and Iyienu, Ogidi, in Idemili North LGA, where authorities identified a laterite and sandstone mining operation.

According to SC Okadigbo Edwin, Head of Media and Tactical Operations of the NSCDC Anambra Command, the operators at both locations could not provide valid documentation authorising their mining activities.

He said the suspected miners fled into nearby bushes when enforcement personnel arrived, leaving behind equipment and other materials that were recovered by the team.

At the Atani site, officers recovered a long shovel, two 25-litre containers of petrol, an excavator battery and four litres of power-steering oil.

At the Iyienu, Ogidi site, the enforcement team recovered four shovels, two sledgehammers, a cutlass, three rakes, four hand hammers, two chisels and a small sieve. Both sites were subsequently sealed.

The NSCDC said the operation forms part of its broader campaign against illegal mining and activities that could damage the environment, undermine legitimate mining operations and threaten public infrastructure.

The Corps has increasingly deployed its mining enforcement units against unlicensed operators nationwide. Its official records show that the NSCDC considers illegal mining a threat to Nigeria’s environment, economy and national security.

The latest operation came a day after the Anambra Command announced the arrest of three suspected illegal sand miners at Obiaja River in Idemili South LGA, where two tippers and excavation tools were also impounded.

The NSCDC has warned individuals involved in unauthorised mining to desist from the practice, while urging residents to report suspected illegal mining activities to the authorities.

The enforcement drive highlights growing efforts by security and mining authorities to protect Nigeria’s mineral resources while addressing the environmental and community risks associated with unregulated extraction.