NSCDC Arraigns 15 Chinese, 9 Nigerians for Illegal Mining

On May 16, 2026, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arraigned 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians at the Federal High Court in Abuja for illegal mining activities in Nasarawa State. The defendants were charged with conducting mining operations without the necessary legal authorization, specifically under exploration license no. 036528, owned by Timadix Geomin Consult Ltd.

The case was presided over by Justice Ofili Ajumogobia, who granted bail to the defendants under specific conditions, including the deposit of their international passports and national identification cards with the court registrar. The lead prosecuting counsel, Mine Marshal Ojo Alex, expressed optimism regarding the defendants' compliance with bail conditions.

The case has been adjourned until June 18, 2026. Mine Marshal Attah Onoja reiterated the NSCDC's commitment to curbing illegal mining activities across the country to protect Nigeria's mineral resources.