Operatives of the Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested three suspected illegal gold miners in Borno State over alleged involvement in unlawful mining activities.
The suspects, Umar Muhammad, Modu Bamai Umar and Sani Samaila, were arrested in Mallam Jakwa town in Hawul Local Government Area following actionable intelligence on their alleged illegal mining operations.
The anti-graft agency disclosed that the suspects’ activities were contributing to insecurity and environmental degradation in the area.
Items recovered from them at the time of arrest included a small gold measuring machine and quantities of mined gold.
According to the commission, the suspects will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.
“Their suspected illegal mining activities are worsening insecurity and environmental degradation in the state,” the EFCC said.
The commission added that the suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed.
