Three Chinese Nationals, Nigerian Miners Arrested in Nasarawa Over Alleged Illegal Mining

Three Chinese nationals and several Nigerian miners have been arrested by security operatives in Nasarawa State over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities at Amba Community, Kokona Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects were apprehended during a security operation led by the Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, following reports of continued mining activities at the site despite government directives suspending operations.

Akabe, who personally led the inspection and enforcement exercise, said the visit was aimed at verifying reports of illegal mining activities and assessing the situation firsthand.

He expressed concern that mining operations had continued at the site despite previous warnings and restrictions placed on such activities.

According to the Deputy Governor, the operation resulted in the arrest of suspected illegal miners, including three Chinese nationals and Nigerian artisanal miners allegedly operating at the location.

“We came here ourselves to see what was happening because we had received several reports that illegal mining activities were ongoing despite the directive for their stoppage,” Akabe said.

During the raid, security operatives recovered suspected mineral resources stored in cartons, as well as equipment believed to have been used in the mining operation. Among the items seized were CCTV cameras and other operational materials allegedly installed at the site to monitor activities and support the mining operation.

The Deputy Governor said the discovery raised concerns over the level of organisation behind the alleged illegal activities. He warned that individuals found to have violated mining regulations would face the full weight of the law.

Akabe reiterated that mining falls under the exclusive legislative list, meaning the Federal Government has the constitutional responsibility to regulate activities in the sector.

However, he said the state government would continue to work with relevant authorities to protect host communities, maintain peace and ensure that mining activities comply with legal requirements.

He also raised concerns that the operators allegedly proceeded without proper agreements with the host community regarding corporate social responsibility initiatives and without evidence of environmental impact assessments.

“There was no agreement with the community whatsoever regarding corporate social responsibility and environmental impact assessments before exploring the minerals on site,” he said.

The Deputy Governor announced that the mining location would remain closed until outstanding legal issues surrounding the site are resolved.

He urged residents and stakeholders to support government efforts to maintain peace and stability while investigations continue.

Authorities said further investigations are ongoing and that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others involved in illegal mining activities.

Speaking through an interpreter, the arrested Chinese nationals reportedly said they had been mining in the community since last year. They claimed they were working for their superiors, who they said are based in Abuja.

The authorities have not disclosed the identities of those allegedly linked to the operation, as investigations continue.

The latest arrests add to a series of enforcement actions by Nigerian authorities against illegal mining operations involving both foreign nationals and local operators.

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to regulate the mining sector, tackle environmental degradation, prevent revenue losses and ensure that mineral resources contribute meaningfully to national development.

Nasarawa, known for deposits of minerals including lithium and other solid minerals, has in recent years witnessed increased attention from investors and regulators as Nigeria seeks to expand its non-oil revenue base.