No fewer than 40 suspected illegal coal miners have been arrested by the operatives of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Enugu State Command.
The suspects were arrested following an intelligence about illegal mining activities taking place at the foot of Ugwuonyeama hill in Enugu.
Addressing journalists, the Commandant NSCDC in the state, Mr. Muhammed Saleh Dada, explained that the act was a serious economic sabotage.
“The NSCDC is the lead agency with statutory mandate for the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure.
“Recently, following a tip off by NSCDC Enugu State Command intelligence team and a subsequent raid, a number of suspected illegal miners were arrested for illegally mining coal at Ugwuonyeama right here in Enugu State.
“In all, about 40 suspects were arrested during the raid by NSCDC security operatives,” he stated.
The NSCDC Commandant vowed to pursue the matter to its logical conclusion and ensure that those behind the act were not only unmasked, but face the full weight of the law.
“I want to use this opportunity to warn and advice all and sundry who engage in this illegality to desist forthwith or face the long arm of the law.
“On a final note, I assure that after profiling and investigation the suspects maybe arrainged in court, and if they have genuine clearance, we’ll allow them to continue,” he insisted.
Mr. Dada called on residents to support efforts by government better their lives by giving information that would lead to the end of such activities.
The NSCDC recovered various implements such as pumping machines, diggers, head-pans and shovels from the suspects.
Others are, 4 Hanvan G7 trucks, numbered 924, 921, 914 (without registration numbers); one Toyota Hilux van with registration number, MUS513HU; two heavy duty batteries; large quantity of coal and one motorcycle.
FRCN