The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested two suspects allegedly linked to an armed syndicate operating at a mining site in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The suspects, identified as 34-year-old Stephen Ibang Francis and 24-year-old Oduwo Emmanuel Obasi, were arrested during a raid on a mining site in Agba Iyam following intelligence provided by members of the public.

The NSCDC State Commandant, Okarama Chuna, said the suspects were found with two locally fabricated firearms and 16 rounds of live ammunition.

According to him, investigations showed that the suspects allegedly operated as armed enforcers, targeting legitimate miners and forcing them away from the site.

Chuna said the suspects and other members of the syndicate allegedly used firearms to intimidate licensed miners before taking control of the mining site and illegally extracting solid minerals.

He described the operation as a major breakthrough in the command’s efforts to tackle illegal mining and the activities of armed groups exploiting Cross River’s mineral resources.

The commandant warned illegal miners and armed syndicates operating in the state’s forests that the NSCDC would intensify its crackdown on their activities.

He assured legitimate and licensed miners of improved security protection to enable them to operate without intimidation.

Chuna said the two suspects remained in custody and had provided useful information, while investigations were being expanded to apprehend other members of the syndicate.

He added that the suspects would be charged after investigations for offences including illegal mining, unlawful possession of firearms and intimidation.