The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 51 suspects for engaging in illegal mining activities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The suspects, all males, were apprehended in the Gwagwalada area of Abuja following a tip-off from the public.
According to the NSCDC FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, the suspects had no evidence of a registered company or a mining license. He said that illegal mining encroaches on the soil and causes environmental degradation and erosion, making the land unfit for agricultural and human activities.
Odumosu also disclosed that three other suspects were arrested for vandalizing a telecommunication mast in the Giri area of the FCT. He said that the suspects had dismantled metal parts of the mast and were about to sell them to a businessman who had paid them N4 million in advance.
He said that the suspects could not show any approval from the NSCDC, which is the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure in the country. Odumosu added that the investigation was ongoing to determine the culpability and ownership claim of the businessman.
The commandant said that the suspects would be charged to court after thorough investigation and interrogation. He also warned the public to desist from illegal mining and vandalism, as they pose serious threats to the security and economy of the nation.
The impact of illegal mining and vandalism
Illegal mining and vandalism are not only criminal offenses, but also harmful to the environment and the society. Illegal mining depletes the natural resources, pollutes the water and air, destroys the biodiversity, and displaces the local communities. It also fuels conflicts, violence, and human rights abuses.
Vandalism, on the other hand, damages the public and private property, disrupts the essential services, and endangers the lives of the people. It also costs the government and the owners a lot of money to repair or replace the vandalized assets.
The NSCDC, as the custodian of the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure, has the mandate to prevent, detect, and prosecute any act of illegal mining and vandalism. The agency also collaborates with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the protection and preservation of the nation’s resources and property.
The way forward for the nation
The arrest of the illegal miners and vandals by the NSCDC is a commendable feat that should be applauded and supported by all Nigerians. It shows the commitment and dedication of the agency to safeguard the nation’s interests and security.
However, the fight against illegal mining and vandalism is not a one-man show. It requires the collective efforts and cooperation of the government, the private sector, the civil society, and the citizens. The government should enact and enforce strict laws and regulations to curb the menace of illegal mining and vandalism.
The private sector should invest in the formal and legal mining sector and adhere to the best practices and standards. The civil society should educate and sensitize the public on the dangers and consequences of illegal mining and vandalism. The citizens should report any suspicious or illegal activities to the relevant authorities and shun any involvement or patronage of such activities.
Source: Punch
