54 illegal miners arrested in Enugu
No fewer than 54 illegal miners has been arrested in Enugu State by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Enugu State Command, says an official.
The Public Relations Officer of the Command, Mr Denny Iwuchukwu, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Enugu.
Iwuchukwu said that the culprits were arrested within three weeks after a security tip-off by some public spirited individuals.
He said that the culprits were arrested while digging coal in large quantities in Ogbete area of Enugu North council area and Iva Valley area close to Ngwo community in Udi council area in the state.
“54 persons were arrested in connection with illegal mining activities in Enugu State.
“This was part of the assist the command gave to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals in checkmating the activities of illegal miners, which have cost a lot of damage to the nation’s economy, environment etc.
“The suspects have been handed over to the ministry for further action,’’ he said.
The spokesman urged illegal miners and vandals to steer clear the state as the command would make the state uncomfortable for them.