NSCDC Arrests Over 500, Prosecutes 270 For Illegal Mining Nationwide

The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has disclosed that the Corps has arrested no fewer than 500 persons and is currently prosecuting 270 others over illegal mining activities across the country.

Audi made this known in Abuja on Wednesday during the inauguration of the House of Representatives Adhoc Committee on Illegal Mining, where he reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to working closely with lawmakers to tackle the menace and safeguard the nation’s mineral resources.

Represented by Assistant Commandant of Corps John Attah, the NSCDC boss said the agency had taken decisive steps to curb revenue losses arising from unregulated mining operations through the establishment of the Mining Marshals Task Force.

“The NSCDC deliberately set up the Mining Marshals Task Force to combat illegal mining and close revenue leakages. We are fully ready to collaborate with the National Assembly to contain this national challenge,” Audi said.

He emphasised that illegal mining not only undermines the economy but also fuels insecurity and environmental degradation in host communities.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Adhoc Committee, Rep. Sanni Abdulraheem, said the committee’s assignment was crucial to block revenue leakages and promote accountability in the management of natural resources.

“Illegal mining, as we all know, is a scourge that has had devastating effects on our nation — from massive revenue losses to criminality that undermines our security and alters our environment

“Our mission is clear. It is to block these revenue leakages, enforce transparency, and ensure that every naira from our natural resources is properly accounted for,” Abdulraheem stated.

The lawmaker expressed appreciation to the Speaker of the House of Representatives for entrusting him with the responsibility and vowed not to disappoint Nigerians.

“We will ensure that every naira generated from our rich natural resources contributes to the nation’s economic prosperity. The committee will strengthen revenue-tracking mechanisms through structured oversight and ensure the flushing out of illegal miners in accordance with our constitutional mandate,” he added.