FG Apprehends Lithium Ore Thieves

FG Apprehends Lithium Ore Thieves

The Federal Government, through a joint operation by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Department of State Services (DSS) has intercepted seven trucks loaded with suspected stolen lithium ore in Kwara State.

The operation was part of a renewed crackdown on illegal mining activities that deprive the country of vital revenue.

The mission began following credible intelligence regarding a convoy of 12 trucks mobilized to transport minerals from an active mining site in Saki, Oyo State.

Surveillance teams tracked the vehicles as they moved through Igbeti toward Ilorin, eventually intercepting seven of them along the Okoolowo–Eyenkorin Expressway.

During the interception, several drivers were taken into custody, though one managed to escape the scene. The drivers claimed they were merely hired for transport and alleged that their activities were being supervised by “Mine Marshal” personnel from Abuja, a claim that is currently under investigation.

Ganiyu Ajibade, the South-West Zonal Mines Officer, stated that all recovered documents and the seized minerals have been secured for further analysis.

He emphasized that the operation aligns with the Federal Government’s “zero-tolerance” policy toward the illegal exportation of Nigeria’s solid minerals.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has consistently warned that the government will intensify its enforcement against mineral theft.

This latest seizure serves as a warning to illegal miners and their collaborators that the state will continue to deploy intelligence to protect its natural resources.