FG Arraigns Eight Chinese And One Nigerian For Illegal Mining

After numerous Chinese nationals were charged yesterday for engaging in illicit mining activities in the Lokpaukwu community, Umuchieze, within the Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, the Federal Government’s attempts to tackle illegal mining gained a major boost.

The suspects, who included eight (8) Chinese nationals and one (1) Nigerian, were recently apprehended by the Mining Marshals, an elite security group formed from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), according to a statement released by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development. Eliminating illicit operators from the mining sector is the responsibility of the Marshals.

“The Mining Marshals, codenamed “Operation Hayakin Kogo,” is the brainchild of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake. This initiative is a pivotal component of his 7-point agenda aimed at sanitizing the mining environment,” he stated.

Yesterday marked the start of the suspects’ trial before Federal High Court, Abuja Judge J.K. Omotosho. The prosecution brought a three-count accusation that included, among other things, mining without permission and obstructing authorised mining operations.

“The defendants include Shen Yongchan, Mo Baixian, Xiao Bin, Huang Xu Fa, Ma Bingli, Yang Jian, Li Peiyin, Que Wengyong, Hiyk Edward Desmond, and Wanda Company Limited.”

The defendants were remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre till the date of the trial’s adjournment after hearing the pleas and arguments made by both parties.

“The Mining Marshals, led by ACC John Onoja, comprise a 2,570-strong force dedicated to eliminating the nefarious activities of criminal syndicates in mining areas across the country,” he said.

“The Minister is committed to strengthening 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.”

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli