Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have apprehended two Chinese nationals and six Nigerians for their alleged involvement in illegal mining operations in the Ogere area of Ogun State.
According to a statement released by the EFCC on Saturday, the suspects were identified as Zhang Hang Lin, Gao Pei Hai, Matthew Mathias, Oluwaseun Amoo, Wasiu Ademola Alao, Ajibola Nurudeen, Ibrahim Yinusa, and Saidu Shuaibu.
The arrests followed a sting operation carried out on Friday, based on credible intelligence and detailed surveillance of the suspects’ illicit activities.
During the operation, EFCC agents recovered three trucks filled with sacks of substances believed to be ground lithium powder, in addition to other unidentified solid minerals.
Also seized at the scene were a Toyota 4Runner SUV, multiple mobile phones, samples of suspected low-grade lithium, ATM cards, international passports, LED flashlights, and investigative documents.
The EFCC noted that the suspects would be charged to court once investigations are concluded, reaffirming its commitment to curbing illegal mining and environmental exploitation in Nigeria.
