NSCDC detains two for armed takeover of Cross River mining site
Two suspects have been arrested by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Cross River State for allegedly terrorising licensed miners and illegally occupying a mining site in Yakurr Local Government Area. Okarama Chuna, the State Commandant, revealed that the suspects were found with locally made firearms and live ammunition. He described the operation as a significant breakthrough against illegal mining and armed syndicates in the state. The command has promised continued action to protect legitimate miners and pursue other members of the syndicate.
What happened
- The NSCDC apprehended Stephen Ibang Francis and Oduwo Emmanuel Obasi, both from Nkpani village, at a mining site in Agba Iyam, Yakurr LGA.
- The suspects were found with two locally fabricated firearms and 16 rounds of live ammunition.
- Okarama Chuna stated that the suspects acted as armed enforcers, intimidating and displacing legitimate miners to take over the site.
- The commandant warned other illegal miners and armed syndicates of an uncompromising crackdown.
- The NSCDC is expanding investigations to arrest more members of the syndicate and has assured security for licensed miners.
