NSCDC Arrests Three Over Illegal Mining in Kwara, Intercepts Truck

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Kwara State has arrested three men over alleged illegal mining and unlawful transportation of suspected solid minerals in Ilorin, the state capital.

The suspects — Musa Abdullahi, 45, Aliyu Ibrahim, 20, and Ishaq Ibrahim, 51 — were reportedly apprehended during a late-night intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of the Mines and Steel Unit attached to the command’s Special Patrol Team.

Speaking with journalists at the NSCDC headquarters in Ilorin on Tuesday, Kwara State Commandant Abbas Mohammed said the operation was conducted on Friday, May 22, 2026, at about 10 p.m. along the Jebba Expressway in the Okolowo area of the city.

According to the commandant, the suspects, who are all indigenes of Keffi, were intercepted while transporting substances suspected to be lithium ore in a truck bearing registration number DKA 990 XJ from Kaduna State.

Mohammed disclosed that the truck was loaded with approximately 36 tonnes of the suspected mineral resources.

He explained that preliminary investigations showed the suspects could not provide valid mining licences, waybills or any legal documents authorising the possession and transportation of the minerals.

“This briefing is to officially inform the public of a significant operational breakthrough recorded by the Command in its sustained fight against illegal mining activities, economic sabotage, and the unlawful exploitation of the nation’s solid mineral resources,” Mohammed said.

The NSCDC boss stated that further investigations were ongoing to determine the actual source and ownership of the suspected lithium ore, identify individuals connected to the operation and uncover the company allegedly involved in the transaction.

He added that the suspects would be prosecuted after investigations are completed in line with existing laws regulating mining activities in Nigeria.

Mohammed also reaffirmed the commitment of the corps to protecting national assets and combating economic sabotage, stressing that the command would intensify operations against illegal mining and related criminal activities across Kwara State.