The Federal Government has announced the arrest of three Chinese nationals and two Nigerians for illicit mining in Nasarawa State.

Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, made the announcement on Monday in Abuja through his spokesman, Segun Tomori.

He said the individuals were apprehended at an illegal mining site in Rafin-Gabas, Agwada, which is part of the Kokona local government region.

“The suspects were arrested for mining without legal authority. Minerals mined include fluorite, zinc, lead, and tin, according to Alake.

He said the company concerned began operations in 2021, resulting in considerable financial losses for the federal government.

The arrests were carried out based on valid intelligence by the ministry’s mining marshals, who were assigned to protect mining sites around the country.

“The arrested suspects confessed to engaging in illegal activities at the site spanning five cadastral units since December 15, 2021.”

“The company defied all lawful advice to regularise their activities and continued syphoning the nation’s resources, causing significant revenue losses to the Federal Government,” a statement stated.
The minister indicated that around 200 illegal miners have been caught thus far, with approximately 140 being prosecuted nationwide.