Chinese Illegal Miners Spark Dramatic Showdown in Kebbi

Chinese Illegal Miners Spark Dramatic Showdown with Mining Marshals and Security Forces in Kebbi

iexclusivenews – Chinese illegal miners operating in Kebbi State have become the center of a confrontation between Mining Marshals and security forces, highlighting the ongoing challenge of unauthorized mining activities in Nigeria’s mineral-rich regions.

The Mining Marshals, a specialized unit recently commissioned by the Federal Government, encountered unexpected resistance during their operation to apprehend Chinese nationals allegedly involved in illegal lithium exploitation in Libata, Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The operation, which took place last Friday, revealed a complex web of protection allegedly provided to the Chinese illegal miners by military and police personnel.

This online news media understands that the sting operation, led by Mining Marshals Commander Attah Onoja, initially succeeded in locating the suspects at their living quarters after they reportedly received advance warning of the impending raid.

However, the situation escalated when security officials intervened, preventing the Marshals from transporting the suspects to Abuja for further investigation.

Government’s Anti-Illegal Mining Initiative Faces Challenges

The Federal Government’s recent efforts to combat illegal mining, spearheaded by Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, Minister of Interior, face significant obstacles.

The Mining Marshals, operating under the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), represent a crucial component of this initiative.

Adding another layer to the controversy, Engr. Adamu Tah, CEO of El-TahDam Exploration, revealed that his company’s planned $50 million processing plant investment has been hampered by the presence of Chinese illegal miners.

According to Tah, his company holds a valid Mining Lease for the site, but access has been denied due to the unauthorized occupation by Chinese operators.

Economic Impact and Community Relations

The situation has significant economic implications:

– A proposed $50 million processing plant remains unimplemented

– Over 3,000 potential jobs are currently on hold

– Substantial amounts of crude materials are allegedly being exploited and exported

– Local community support for legitimate mining operations exists but remains unutilized

Legal and Administrative Challenges

Despite having proper documentation and community support, legitimate operators face multiple obstacles:

– Presence of unauthorized Chinese illegal miners

– Alleged involvement of state actors

– Unaddressed complaint letters

– Interference from local influential figures

Commander Onoja emphasized that their mission isn’t to halt mining activities entirely but to ensure proper licensing and regulation of operations. The presence of vehicles belonging to a China-State owned company at the site has raised further questions about the scope and nature of these unauthorized operations.

The Mining Marshals have indicated they will pursue legal channels to address this situation, demonstrating their commitment to establishing lawful mining practices across Nigeria. This incident underscores the complex challenges facing Nigeria’s mining sector and the ongoing struggle to regulate foreign involvement in the country’s mineral resources.