Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested three individuals suspected of engaging in illegal gold mining activities in Borno State.
The suspects identified as Umar Muhammad, Modu Bamai Umar, and Sani Samaila were apprehended by the EFCC’s Maiduguri Zonal Directorate in Mallam Jakwa Town, Hawul Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence on their activities.
According to the anti-graft agency, the suspects were allegedly involved in unlawful mining operations that are contributing to insecurity and environmental degradation in the state.
Items recovered from them at the time of arrest reportedly include mined gold and a small gold measuring machine, indicating active involvement in illegal extraction and processing.
The EFCC noted that illegal mining has become a growing concern in parts of Nigeria, as it not only undermines government revenue but also fuels criminal activities and damages the environment.
The commission further disclosed that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, as part of efforts to clamp down on illegal mining operations across the country.
This latest arrest highlights ongoing efforts by security and regulatory agencies to tackle the proliferation of illegal mining, which has increasingly been linked to broader security challenges in Nigeria’s resource-rich regions.
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