Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 11 individuals for alleged involvement in illegal mining operations without the required licences.
This was disclosed in a statement by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, on Monday in Abuja.
According to the Commission, the suspects were arrested on Thursday at Emem-Asuk community in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, where they were found operating two illicit mining sites.
Suspects Include Seven Chinese Nationals
The suspects include seven Chinese nationals, identified as:
Yang Chaobao, 32
Zhong Dun Yi, 33
Cheng Jiang, 35
Zhong Dun Long, 37
Pan Peiming, 33
Lai Yiping, 37
Zhu Lekun, 35
Also arrested were four Nigerians:
David Israel, 18
Jonah Jim, 24
Samuel Timothy, 20
Comfort Ajaga, 23 — a translator
Ilmenite Mining and Second Site Setup
Oyewale said the suspects were apprehended while setting up mining equipment at a second illegal location. Investigations revealed they were already mining ilmenite, locally known as “black sand”, at their first site.
During interrogation, Comfort Ajaga, the only female suspect, claimed her role was solely to act as a Mandarin translator for the Chinese nationals.
“I am a student, and I’m studying Chinese Language at a learning centre in Anambra. I only work with them as a translator,” she said.
Prosecution to Follow
The EFCC stated that all suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of ongoing investigations.
