The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command in its sustained commitment to the fight against illegal mining has successfully raided a highly organized illegal sand mining site at Omambala River Ifite-Ogwari Local Government Area of Anambra State.
This was made known by Commandant Maku Olatunde, the NSCDC Anambra State Commandant in his office at the command Headquarters Awka on Sunday June 1, 2025.
The Anambra NSCDC boss revealed that the operation conducted by the Mines and Steel Development Unit( MSD) of the command in collaboration with the newly deployed Anambra State Federal Mines Officer; Engr. Edet Anthony Oku, was based on credible intelligence suggesting potential illegal mining activities at the site.
“On Friday, May 30, 2025 at about 13:05 hours, the command swooped in on an Illegal mining site located at Omambala River Ifite-Ogwari in Ayamelum Local Government Area of the state. As the team approached the site, all the suspected illegal miners fled the scene, leaving behind some of their mining equipments” he said.
The NSCDC State helmsman said exhibits recovered from site included, one Dredger, two dredging engine pumps, eighteen drums, five suction pipes,eight plastic discharge pipes, three jerrycans (25L), one plastic bucket and one funnel.Following the raid, the illegal mining site has been sealed, and a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing suspects.
He said “preliminary investigation suggests that the site with licenced mining title reportedly held by one Hon. Ike Nweke of Messrs. Trillike Investment Ltd had been overtaken by unauthorised miners allegedly led by one Mr. Uche Joshua Okafor, who is currently at large”.
“‘As part of our mandate, we are duty-bound to safeguard the interests of legitimate title holders by sealing off illegal mining sites and facilitating the lawful operations of verified title holders. By doing so, we prevent revenue loss, environmental degradation, and promote sustainability in the sector”.
Consequently, the command has launched a thorough investigation to uncover the full extent of the fleeing suspects’ criminal activities including those aiding and abetting the illicit activities. Upon the conclusion of investigation, those found culpable would be formally charged to court to face the consequences of their actions.
The NSCDC reaffirms its commitment to enforcing the law and protecting the nation’s solid mineral resources, warning perpetrators of illegal mining activities to desist forthwith or face the full weight of the law.
SC Okadigbo Edwin
Head, Media and Tactical Ops
NSCDC Anambra State Command
