NSCDC Arrests Four for Illegal Mining, Damage to NNPC Facility in Rivers
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) South South Mining Marshals have arrested four suspects for alleged illegal mining and the destruction of critical national assets belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) in Rivers State.
The operation followed a petition from the NNPC over ongoing substandard mining activities posing serious threats to one of its key facilities. Acting swiftly, the Mining Marshals stormed the site and uncovered extensive environmental degradation and damage to parts of the land, creating hazards to nearby communities and risks to lives and property.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the company involved in the operations held a quarry licence but failed to adhere to required standard operating procedures (SOPs). This negligence, according to NSCDC officials, led to land degradation, safety risks, and potential damage to vital national infrastructure in the area.
The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and profiling at the NSCDC Rivers State Command, while the illegal site has been sealed to prevent further harm.
NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to protecting Nigeria’s natural resources and critical infrastructure, stressing that efforts to eradicate illegal mining nationwide will be intensified. He warned that all perpetrators, regardless of their status, will be brought to justice in line with the Corps’ core mandate.
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