The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested eight individuals, including two Chinese nationals and six Nigerians, in connection with suspected illegal mining operations in the Ogere area of Ogun State.
The arrests were made during a coordinated operation on Friday, following actionable intelligence and days of surveillance on the suspects’ activities, according to a statement released by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale.
The suspects have been identified as Zhang Hang Lin, Gao Pei Hai, Matthew Mathias, Oluwaseun Amoo, Wasiu Ademola Alao, Ajibola Nurudeen, Ibrahim Yinusa and Saidu Shuaibu
EFCC operatives reportedly intercepted three trucks loaded with sacks containing substances suspected to be ground lithium powder and other solid minerals, believed to be illegally extracted and processed. Additional items recovered during the raid include a Toyota 4Runner SUV, mobile phones, samples of suspected low-grade lithium, ATM cards, international passports, four LED flashlights, and other documents.
"The operation was based on credible intelligence and extensive surveillance," Oyewale stated, adding that the suspects would face prosecution once investigations are finalized.
Illegal mining, particularly involving strategic minerals such as lithium, has been a growing concern in Nigeria, with authorities ramping up efforts to curb the exploitation of the country’s natural resources.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to tackling economic crimes and illegal activities in the solid minerals sector.
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