The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC in collaboration with the Anambra State Federal Mines Officer, has sealed two illegal mining sites at Atani in Ogbaru LGA and Iyienu, Ogidi in Idemili North LGA, respectively.
This was disclosed on Thursday, 27th August 2026 by Superitendent of Corps (SC) Okadigbo Edwin, the Head of Media and Tactical Operations at the State Command Headquarters, Awka.
Speaking for the State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde, SC Okadigbo Edwin said the operation was carried out following meticulous intelligence gathering and surveillance which revealed that the operators of the laterite/sandstone and sharp sand sites had no valid documentation authorizing their mining activities.
In his words, “the Mines and Solid Minerals Development Unit headed by Assistant Commandant of Corps, Ochie Paul jointly with Engr. Edet Anthony, Anambra State the Federal Mines Officer launched an investigation into the activities of these illegal miners and raided the sites.
“On sighting the enforcement team, the suspected illegal miners escaped , leaving behind equipments and fleeing into the nearby bushes. However, various exhibits were recovered at both locations before the sites were sealed.”
Continuing, he said that at Atani, Ogbaru LGA, the operation took place at about 13:04 hours at an illegal sharp sand site where items recovered include one long shovel, two gallons of 25 litres of gasoline, one big excavator battery and four litres of power steering oil.
Thereafter, the team moved to Iyienu, Ogidi in Idemili North LGA where an illegal laterite/sandstone mining site was sealed and the following exhibits were recovered: four shovels, two sledge hammers, one cutlass, three rakes, four hand hammers, two chisels and one small sieve.
He maintained that operations would continue across Anambra State and warned illegal miners that attempts to flee during security raids would not shield them from eventual arrest and prosecution.
Okadigbo said the success of the operation reflects the gallantry and professionalism of our operatives. It is a clear warning that the government will no longer tolerate activities that undermine the growth and development of Nigeria’s mining sector, degrade the environment, and threaten public infrastructure.
The State Commandant commended the joint enforcement team for their determination to protect natural resources, preserve the environment and safeguard communities affected by mining activities.
He noted that the level of land degradation, erosion threats, and flagrant violations of environmental regulations, which pose serious risks to lives, property, and public infrastructure, necessitated the swift action.
