EFCC Nabs Two Chinese Nationals, Six Nigerians for Illegal Lithium Mining in Ogun State
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested two Chinese nationals and six Nigerian citizens for alleged illegal mining activities in Ogere, Ogun State. The operation, carried out by the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 1, is part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on unauthorized mineral extraction in the country.
The arrested suspects include Zhang Hang Lin, Gao Pei Hai, Matthew Mathias, Oluwaseun Amoo, Wasiu Ademola Alao, Ajibola Nurudeen, Ibrahim Yinusa, and Saidu Shuaibu. They were apprehended on Friday, May 9, 2025, during a coordinated sting operation, following credible intelligence and surveillance that exposed their illicit activities.
During the operation, EFCC operatives recovered three trucks loaded with sacks of substances suspected to be ground lithium powder, a valuable mineral used in the production of batteries for electric vehicles and other electronic devices. The seized items also included a Toyota 4Runner SUV, mobile phones, ATM cards, samples of suspected low-grade lithium, international passports, LED flashlights, and various documents believed to be connected to the illegal mining operation.
Illegal mining, particularly of critical minerals like lithium, poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s economy. It deprives the government of valuable revenue, disrupts regulated mining operations, and often leads to severe environmental degradation. The global demand for lithium has surged in recent years, driven by the rapid growth of electric vehicle and renewable energy industries, making it a prime target for illegal miners.
The EFCC has confirmed that the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
The agency has reiterated its commitment to enforcing Nigeria’s mineral laws and bringing those involved in illegal mining to justice.
This latest operation is part of a broader crackdown on unlicensed mining across Nigeria, aimed at securing the nation’s mineral wealth. Since April 2025, Nigerian authorities have intensified efforts to curb unauthorized mining activities, particularly targeting the illegal extraction of lithium.
The EFCC’s actions underscore the government’s determination to protect its natural resources and ensure that mining activities are conducted within the framework of the law, preserving both the environment and the economic interests of the country.
