The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Anambra State has arrested three suspects for allegedly mining sharp sand without authorisation.

The operation took place at Obiaja River along the Nnobi-Ideani Junction, Uke Road, in Idemili South Local Government Area.

State Commandant, Maku Olatunde announced the arrest during a media briefing at the command headquarters in Awka on Wednesday. He said operatives from the Mines and Steel Development Unit carried out the raid in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer in the state.

The suspects were identified as Patrick Anpue, 45, from Umuagu Village, Nnobi; Chidubem Ugammadu, 44, from Urumkpu Village, Umuoji; and Chukwuma Igwe, 47, from Umuanocha Village, Awka-Etiti. They were arrested at the site popularly known as Mmiri Obiaja or Mmiri Mgbo.

Items recovered during the operation included two tippers with registration numbers XA 653 GBZ and GDD 423 XB, six shovels and one wheelbarrow. The suspects reportedly admitted to carrying out mining activities without the required permits or legal documents.

Olatunde said the investigation is ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court once it is completed. He warned those involved in illegal sand mining to stop or face the full weight of the law, while urging members of the public to report any suspected cases to the NSCDC.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper