EFCC Arrests Seven for Alleged Illegal Mining Activities in Ilorin

Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested seven individuals on charges related to illegal mining activities. This operation, which took place on Friday, May 24, 2024, in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, followed extensive surveillance and credible intelligence gathering. The apprehended suspects include Waliyu Abidoye, Abubakar Auwal, Abdulrauf Hakim, Sabiu Usman, Salihu Godwin, Dauda Mohammed, and Olalekan Aremu.

At the time of the arrest, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission operatives confiscated five truckloads of various minerals, such as lepidolite, lithium, and other precious stones. Initial investigations indicate that the suspects were engaged in mining activities without the necessary licenses and did not possess the legal authority to procure or hold these minerals. Furthermore, it was revealed that they failed to pay the required royalties to both the Federal and State governments, thus violating multiple legal provisions governing mineral resources in Nigeria.

Bribery Attempt Thwarted by EFCC Operatives

In a related development, the EFCC also apprehended two additional suspects, Faleti Waheed and Noah Olalekan, for attempting to bribe commission operatives with N1.2 million. The bribe was intended to secure the release of one of the impounded trucks loaded with minerals. The duo approached EFCC officials during the arrest operation and proposed the illicit transaction.

Demonstrating their commitment to upholding the law, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission operatives played along with the bribe attempt, leading to the arrest of Waheed and Olalekan at the moment they delivered the money. During this sting operation, a total of N995,500 was recovered from Waheed, who identified himself as a manager at a filling station in Ogbomosho, while N201,000 was found on Olalekan, who claimed to be a scavenger.

These arrests highlight the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and illegal activities in the mining sector. The suspects are currently in custody and will face legal proceedings once the investigations are concluded. This operation underscores the EFCC’s dedication to enforcing the law and ensuring that Nigeria’s mineral resources are exploited responsibly and in accordance with legal requirements.

Also EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Kaduna

The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended 11 individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud. The arrests occurred at strategic locations in the Kaduna metropolis, including the Apple Gate Hotel, Karji, and Barnawa. Acting on credible intelligence, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission launched a coordinated operation to detain the suspects for their alleged involvement in various internet-related criminal activities.

During the arrest, the operatives seized several items believed to be linked to the fraudulent activities. The confiscated items included 16 mobile phones, a laptop, and a wristwatch. These gadgets are crucial for the EFCC’s ongoing investigation, as they may contain evidence of the suspects‘ illegal operations. The arrests underscore the EFCC’s commitment to curbing cybercrime and protecting citizens from online fraud.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

Following the arrests, the EFCC has initiated a thorough investigation to gather concrete evidence against the suspects. The investigation aims to uncover the extent of the suspects’ fraudulent activities and identify any additional accomplices. According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the suspects will face charges in court once the investigation is completed, ensuring that due process is followed.

The EFCC’s actions reflect a broader effort to tackle the rising menace of internet fraud in Nigeria. Cybercrime poses a significant threat to the nation’s economy and the security of its citizens. By swiftly addressing such cases, the EFCC hopes to deter potential fraudsters and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s digital space. The agency encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to aid in the fight against cybercrime.