The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested three suspected illegal sand miners and impounded two tippers at Obiaja River in the Idemili South Local Government Area.

The state Commandant, Olatunde Maku, stated this on Thursday in Awka while briefing journalists.

Mr Maku said the suspects were arrested by operatives of the command’s Mines and Steel Development Unit in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.

He said the operation was carried out on Wednesday, following credible intelligence on illegal mining activities at Obiaja River, along Nnobi-Ideni junction, Uke Road.

He said the raid was part of the command’s determination to curb unregulated mining and protect the state’s mineral resources from exploitation by unlicensed operators.

He stated that the suspects were arrested at the mining site while allegedly engaging in the extraction of sharp sand from the river.

Mr Maku added, “Two tippers with registration numbers XA653GBZ and GDD423XB, six shovels and one wheelbarrow allegedly used for excavation were recovered.

“The suspects confessed to carrying out mining activities at the site without authorisation or legal documentation from the relevant authorities. They will however, be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.”

The commandant reiterated the corps’ commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, including solid mineral resources in line with its mandate.

He warned individuals and groups engaged in illegal sand mining and other activities contravening environmental laws to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases of illegal sand mining to the NSCDC for necessary action.

(NAN)