Nigeria’s government says illegal mining is becoming a major threat to national and regional security.
The Federal Government has handed over foreign suspects linked to terrorism and illegal mining activities to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) for further investigation.
Authorities said more than 327 suspects, including several foreign nationals, have been arrested in connection with illegal mining operations across the country. About 142 of them are currently facing prosecution.
Officials warned that the growing illegal exploitation of mineral resources is fueling insecurity and economic sabotage in Nigeria and across West Africa.
Speaking during a regional anti-corruption meeting, government representatives called for resource theft and illegal mining to be treated as international crimes that threaten regional stability.
The remarks were made during a gathering of the Network of National Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa, where leaders discussed cross-border crimes linked to stolen minerals.
The Federal Government says it will continue strengthening enforcement efforts against illegal mining networks operating in the country.