By Demola Akinyemi, ILORIN

The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested three suspected illegal miners following the interception of a truck conveying suspected lithium ore along the Jebba Expressway in Ilorin.

The suspects, identified as Musa, Aliyu, and Ishaq are all natives of Keffi in Nasarawa State.

The state commandant of the Corps, Abbas Nda Mohammed, speaking during a media briefing at the NSCDC Command Headquarters in Ilorin on Tuesday, said the arrest was part of ongoing efforts by the Command to combat illegal mining, economic sabotage, and unlawful exploitation of the nation’s mineral resources.

He said that the suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Mines and Steel Unit attached to the Special Patrol Team during an intelligence-led operation.

NSCDC commandant further said that the operation was carried out on Friday, May 22, 2026, at about 10pm around the Okolowo axis of the Jebba Expressway, where security operatives intercepted a truck with registration number DKA 990 XJ from Kaduna State.

Mohammed said the truck was conveying about 36 tonnes of substances suspected to be lithium ore.

“This briefing is to officially inform the public of a significant operational breakthrough recorded by the Command in its sustained fight against illegal mining activities, economic sabotage, and the unlawful exploitation of the nation’s solid mineral resources,” he said.

The Commandant also said that preliminary investigations showed that the suspects failed to provide valid mining licences, waybills, or any legal documents authorising the possession and transportation of the mineral resources.

He added that investigations were ongoing to ascertain the actual source and ownership of the suspected minerals, identify other persons linked to the transaction, and determine the mining company involved.

“The suspects will be prosecuted in accordance with the law upon conclusion of investigation,” Mohammed stated.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the NSCDC to safeguarding critical national assets and intensifying operations against illegal mining and other criminal activities across Kwara State.