19 Illegal Miners Arrested in Edo, Search for Two Operators

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has detained 19 suspected illegal miners in Edo North. Two alleged operators behind these activities are still on the run.

The suspects were caught on Friday, August 28, 2026, during a raid at a gold mining site in the Okpella/Ososo/Egbetua forest area of Etsako East and Akoko-Edo Local Government Areas in Edo State.

Saidi Akintayo, the NSCDC Commander in Edo State, shared this news at a press conference in Benin on Tuesday. He mentioned that this operation followed reliable tips and careful monitoring of illegal mining in the region.

Akintayo stated that the corps’ Mining Marshal Unit entered the forest at around 3:35 PM on Friday. They faced tough conditions like rough terrain and thick vegetation.

He said, "Despite the difficult terrain, poor road network, hills and thick bushes, our officers successfully located the illegal mining site and arrested 19 suspected illegal miners, while two others escaped into the forest."

A preliminary investigation showed that these suspects were involved in illegal gold mining. They were reportedly working for two people known as ‘Area’ and Mr. Abu Mawain.

According to the commander, 15 of the miners worked for “Area,” while the remaining four were said to work for Mawain under the name Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.

The authorities recovered many items from the mining site. These included one pumping machine, five head pans, 13 carpets or rugs, six shovels, 15 mobile phones, one power bank, and four identity cards linked to Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.

Akintayo confirmed that the two alleged operators are still at large. He added that they are working hard to find and arrest them.

He noted that the arrested miners had confessed to their roles in these illegal activities. They will be taken to court once the investigation wraps up.

The NSCDC commander emphasized that this operation is part of their ongoing fight against illegal mining and the exploitation of Edo State's natural resources.

Akintayo stated, "Let me state categorically that the NSCDC will not fold its arms and allow criminal elements to plunder the natural resources of Edo State, which are meant to contribute to the development of the state and the nation."

He instructed the Mining Marshal Unit to increase their efforts across the state. They will focus not just on those working in illegal mining but also on the financiers and sponsors of these activities.

He added, "We will leave no stone unturned in identifying not only those working at illegal mining sites but also the financiers, sponsors, and individuals benefiting from these activities."

The commander praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for the support provided to the command. This help has made it easier for their officers to do their jobs.

He also commended the officers involved in the operation for their bravery and commitment. He urged the public to share credible information that could help the corps in their fight against illegal mining.

"The NSCDC Edo State Command remains resolute. Illegal mining has no place in Edo State, and anyone found violating the law will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly," Akintayo concluded.