The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has recorded a major breakthrough in its crackdown on illegal mining, arresting three suspects and intercepting a truck loaded with about 36 tonnes of suspected lithium ore.
The suspects — Musa Abdullahi (45), Aliyu Ibrahim (20), and Ishaq Ibrahim (51), all from Keffi in Nasarawa State — were arrested during an intelligence-driven operation carried out by operatives of the Mines and Steel Unit under the Command’s Special Patrol Team.
According to the State Commandant, Abbas Nda Mohammed, the interception took place at about 10:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, along the Jebba Expressway in the Okolowo axis of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.
He explained that the operation was part of intensified efforts to combat illegal mining activities and economic sabotage across Kwara State.
The intercepted vehicle, a truck with registration number DKA 990 XJ (Kaduna State), was reportedly conveying suspected lithium ore without valid documentation.
Commandant Abbas disclosed that preliminary investigations showed the suspects were unable to produce mining licences, waybills, or any legal permits authorising the extraction or movement of the mineral resources.
He added that investigations have been expanded to uncover the source of the minerals, identify possible collaborators, and establish whether a licensed mining company was involved in the illegal transaction.
The Commandant reaffirmed the Corps’ resolve to intensify surveillance and enforcement operations against illegal mining networks, warning that perpetrators would face prosecution upon completion of investigations.
