CurrentReport Blog The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Oyo State Command has apprehended five individuals for their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities within the state. This was announced on Wednesday in Ibadan by the state’s Commandant, Augustine Padonu, during the parade of the suspects.
According to Padonu, NSCDC personnel successfully intercepted two trucks loaded with approximately 60 tonnes of solid minerals, suspected to be lithium powder, at the Ibadan Toll Gate on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. The minerals were reportedly sourced from Ilenla in Kishi town, Oyo State, and were destined for sale in Ogere, Ogun State.
The commandant stated that the suspects had been operating without the necessary legal documentation, including an operation licence, royalties, purchase and process licences, and haulage receipts, making their mining activities unlawful.
He explained the circumstances of the arrest:
“On Friday, at about 2100 hours, our vigilant monitoring team intercepted two DAF trucks with registration numbers BDJ 64 XE and ARP 201 XB at the Ibadan Toll Gate of Lagos-Ibadan expressway. The trucks were loaded with solid minerals suspected to be lithium powder weighing about 60 tonnes,” said Padonu.
The Commandant further assured that the suspects would face prosecution after investigations are completed. He reiterated the NSCDC’s commitment to maintaining law and order in Oyo State, particularly in safeguarding the state’s solid mineral resources from illegal exploitation.
“We urge the good people of Oyo State to continue providing NSCDC and other security agencies with information that will aid our efforts in maintaining law and order,” Padonu added.
The NSCDC in Oyo State remains dedicated to curbing illegal mining operations and ensuring that all mining activities are conducted in line with Nigeria’s legal framework. The Commandant vowed to continue working diligently to rid the state of criminal elements.
