Three Chinese nationals and several Nigerian artisanal miners have been arrested over their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities in Amba Community, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The suspects were apprehended during a security operation led by the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, at an illegal mining site on Friday, July 17. Security operatives also recovered suspected mineral resources packed in cartons, CCTV cameras, and other equipment believed to have been used to facilitate the unauthorised mining operation.
Speaking after the raid, Akabe said he personally led the enforcement exercise following repeated reports that mining activities were continuing at the site despite a government order suspending operations. He said he visited the location to verify the situation firsthand and expressed concern that the state’s directive halting mining activities was being disregarded.
The deputy governor questioned how foreign nationals without the required legal documentation were able to engage in mining activities in the state, stressing that the government would not tolerate illegal operations and remained committed to upholding the rule of law.
Akabe noted that mining falls under the exclusive legislative jurisdiction of the Federal Government but said the Nasarawa State Government would continue to safeguard the interests of host communities while maintaining law and order. He also stated that no agreement had been reached with the host community on corporate social responsibility obligations or environmental impact assessments before mining activities commenced at the site.
According to him, all those found culpable would face prosecution, while mining activities in the area would remain suspended until ongoing litigation relating to the site is concluded. Akabe urged residents to support the government’s efforts to maintain peace, security and stability across the state.
Speaking through an interpreter, the arrested Chinese nationals reportedly told authorities they had been operating at the site since last year on behalf of their employers based in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Authorities said investigations are ongoing and that anyone found to have violated the law would be prosecuted.
