The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested eight suspects and seized six trucks in a crackdown on illegal mining along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso axis in Kwara and Oyo states.
EFCC Targets Illegal Mineral Operations
Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested eight persons on Saturday, February 20, 2026. The agency acted on credible intelligence and conducted days of surveillance on unlawful mineral excavation and transportation across parts of Kwara and Oyo states.
Dele Oyewale, the EFCC spokesman, confirmed the operation in a statement released on Monday. He stated that the suspects faced allegations of involvement in illegal mining activities.
Seizure of Trucks and Minerals
The operatives intercepted the suspects alongside six trucks loaded with assorted minerals. Authorities suspected the minerals to include lithium and kaolin. The trucks carried the excavated materials without required licenses or permits.
This recent action formed part of the zonal directorate’s ongoing efforts against illegal mining. The arrests raised the total number of persons apprehended by the Ilorin Zonal Directorate to 18 for suspected illegal mining within the last one month.
Context of Sustained Crackdown
The EFCC intensified operations in the region due to repeated violations in solid mineral extraction. Previous actions included arrests and seizures along the same axis. Officials intercepted similar truckloads in earlier sting operations.
The suspects remained in custody as investigations continued. The EFCC planned to charge them to court upon completion of inquiries. Moreover authorities emphasized enforcement of laws governing mineral resources to curb economic sabotage through unlicensed activities.
pic.twitter.com/NzH0C0Mh7v— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) February 23, 2026
