Eight Chinese nationals have been arraigned in court by the Federal Government for illegal mining activities in the Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, within the Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori in a statement said the suspects, including eight (8) Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, were recently apprehended by the Mining Marshals, codenamed “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to the statement, the trial of the suspects had begun before Justice J.K Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, and the prosecution filed a 3-count charge, bordering on mining without lawful authority, and obstruction of lawful mining operations amongst others.
Upon hearing the pleas and arguments from both sides, the Judge ordered that the defendants be remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre until the adjourned date for the continuation of the trial.
The Mining Marshals is tasked with the responsibility of ridding the mining sector of illegal operators and is the brainchild of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.
The Mining Marshals, led by ACC John Onoja, comprise a 2,570-strong force dedicated to preventing the nefarious activities of criminal syndicates in mining areas across the country.
“The Minister’s commitment is to strengthen the operations of the Mining Marshals through the infusion of technology and more equipment to ultimately ensure that the nation reaps maximum benefits from its God-given mineral resources,” the statement added.
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