Anambra NSCDC Nabs Trio Over Unlicensed Sand Mining

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has confirmed the apprehension of three individuals implicated in the illicit extraction of sharp sand. The arrests took place at the Obiaja River, situated along the Nnobi-Ideani Junction, Uke Road, within the Idemili South Local Government Area of the state.

State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, shared these details during a press briefing held on Wednesday, August 26, at the NSCDC Command Headquarters in Awka. He explained that the operation was executed by personnel from the command's Mines and Steel Development Unit, working in conjunction with the Federal Mines Officer stationed in Anambra.

Olatunde stated, “On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at about 14:07 hours, the command’s Mines and Steel Development Unit, in collaboration with the Office of the Federal Mines Officer, Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, acting on credible intelligence, raided ‘Mmiri Obiaja’ popularly known as ‘mmiri mgbo’ Obiaja Nnobi and arrested three suspects engaged in illegal mining of sharp sand at the river.”

The individuals taken into custody at the site were identified as Patrick Anpue, a 45-year-old male from Umuagu Village, Nnobi, Idemili South LGA; Chidubem Ugammadu, a 44-year-old male from Urumkpu Village, Umuoji, Idemili South LGA; and Chukwuma Igwe, a 47-year-old male from Umuanocha Village, Awka-Etiti, Idemili North LGA of Anambra State.

According to the state commandant, this operation highlights the command's persistent efforts to combat unregulated mining activities across Anambra. Items confiscated from the suspects included two tipper trucks with registration numbers XA 653 GBZ and GDD 423 XB, along with six shovels and a wheelbarrow, all used in the excavation process.

The suspects have reportedly admitted to engaging in mining activities at the location without obtaining the necessary permits or legal documentation from the relevant authorities. Investigations are currently in progress, and the apprehended individuals are expected to face charges in court once the inquiry is concluded.

Commandant Olatunde reaffirmed the NSCDC's commitment to safeguarding vital national assets and infrastructure, specifically solid minerals, as mandated by their core responsibilities. He issued a stern warning to all persons or groups involved in illegal sand mining or related operations to cease immediately or be prepared to face the full force of the law. Furthermore, Olatunde urged the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious instances of illegal sand mining to the NSCDC for appropriate action.