Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested three suspected illegal gold miners in Borno State.
The suspects—Umar Muhammad, Modu Bamai Umar and Sani Samaila—were apprehended by officers of the Maiduguri Zonal Directorate in Mallam Jakwa Town, located in Hawul Local Government Area, following credible intelligence on their alleged illegal mining operations.
According to the commission, the activities of the suspects are believed to be contributing to rising insecurity and environmental degradation in the area.
Items recovered from them at the time of arrest include a small gold measuring machine and quantities of mined gold.
The EFCC stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
“Their suspected illegal mining activities are worsening insecurity and environmental degradation in the state,” the EFCC said.