Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have arrested 19 suspected illegal miners in a forest in Edo North, where they were allegedly carrying out unauthorised gold mining activities, the State Commandant has said.

The suspects were apprehended on August 28, 2026, during an operation by the command's Mining Marshal Unit acting on intelligence, State Commandant Saidi Akintayo disclosed at a press conference in Benin City on Tuesday.

"Following credible intelligence and sustained surveillance on the activities of suspected illegal miners operating within the Okpella/Ososo/Egbetua forest axis of Etsako East and Akoko-Edo Local Government Areas, officers of the Command's Mining Marshal Unit stormed the forest on Friday, 28th August 2026, at about 15:35hrs.

"Despite the difficult terrain, poor road network, hills, and thick bushes, our officers successfully located the illegal mining site and arrested 19 suspected illegal miners, while two others escaped into the forest," Akintayo said.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects were engaged in illegal gold mining and were working for two individuals identified as a man popularly known as "Area" and Mr. Abu Mawain, respectively.

Fifteen of the suspects allegedly worked for "Area," while four allegedly worked for Mr. Abu Mawain under the name Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.

Several items were recovered, including one pumping machine, five head pans, thirteen carpets or rugs, six shovels, fifteen mobile phones, one power bank, and four identity cards bearing the name Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.

Akintayo said that the two alleged leaders, "Area" and Mr. Abu Mawain, were currently at large, assuring that efforts were ongoing to locate and bring them to justice.

He said the arrested suspects had made statements admitting their involvement and would be charged to court after investigation.

"Let me state categorically that the NSCDC will not fold its arms and allow criminal elements to plunder the natural resources of Edo State, which are meant to contribute to the development of the state and the nation.

"I have therefore directed the Mining Marshal Unit to intensify operations and flush out illegal miners from mining sites across Edo State. We will leave no stone unturned in identifying not only those working at illegal mining sites but also the financiers, sponsors, and individuals benefiting from these activities," he narrated.

The commandant commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his timely logistics and all-round support, which have created a most enabling environment for the officers and men of the corps to discharge their duties without prejudice or favour at all times. He also commended the officers involved in the operation for their courage and commitment.

"The NSCDC Edo State Command remains resolute. Illegal mining has no place in Edo State, and anyone found violating the law will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly," Akintayo said.