The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested three suspected illegal miners for allegedly transporting solid minerals believed to be lithium ore without valid documents.
Speaking during a media briefing at the NSCDC Command Headquarters in Ilorin, the State Commandant, Abbas Nda Mohammed said the suspects, identified as Musa Abdullahi, Aliyu Ibrahim, and Ishaq Ibrahim,, were arrested at about 10PM on Friday, May 22, 2026, along Jebba Expressway in Okolowo area of Ilorin, by operatives of the Mines and Steel Unit attached to the Command’s Special Patrol Team.
He disclosed that at interception of the suspects truck with registration number DKA 990 XJ, Kaduna State, which was conveying about 36 tonnes of substances suspected to be lithium ore, the suspects failed to provide valid mining licences, waybills or any legal documents authorising the possession and transportation of the mineral resources.
The NSCDC boss further revealed that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the actual source and ownership of the minerals, identify other persons connected to the transaction and determine the mining company involved.
Commandant Abbas reaffirmed the commitment of the Corps to safeguarding critical national assets, stressing that the Command would intensify operations against illegal mining and other criminal activities across Kwara State.
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