The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has apprehended five alleged illegal miners and confiscated nine motorcycles, along with other materials, during a raid in Katcha Local Government Area of the state.
Presenting the suspects at the command headquarters in Minna on Friday, October 3, 2025, the State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, urged traditional institutions, political leaders, and residents to raise awareness about the dangers and legal risks tied to unlawful mining.
He explained that the suspects were caught at Zuzungi community, near Kataeregi, where they were extracting monoxide solid minerals valued at millions of naira. “Acting on credible intelligence around 24:00 hours, the mining marshals of the NSCDC stormed the site and arrested the suspects while in the act,” Commandant Suberu revealed.
He praised the operatives for their “resilience, commitment, vigilance, and professionalism” during the raid, warning that illegal mining activities amount to serious economic sabotage against the country.
The Commandant reaffirmed the Corps’ dedication to defending Niger State’s natural resources from exploitation, sustaining law and order, and working with other security bodies to reduce crime across the state. “We will continue to make Niger State a difficult zone for illegal mining, vandalism, and other social vices,” he pledged.
Suberu also applauded the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, as well as Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, for their continued backing toward peace and security in the state.
He confirmed that investigations remain underway and assured that further details would be provided after completion.
