The Edo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 19 suspected illegal miners operating within the Okpella/Ososo/Egbetua forest axis of Etsako East and Akoko-Edo Local Government Areas of Edo State.

The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Command’s Mining Marshal Unit during an operation conducted on Friday, August 28, 2026, following credible intelligence and sustained surveillance of activities in the area.

According to the NSCDC, the operation commenced at about 3:35 p.m., despite the difficult terrain, poor road network, hills and thick vegetation within the forest.

Two other suspects reportedly escaped into the forest during the operation.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects were allegedly involved in illegal gold mining and were working for two individuals identified as a man popularly known as “Area” and Mr Abu Mawain.

The Command said suspects one to 15 allegedly worked for “Area”, while suspects 16 to 19 were reportedly working for Abu Mawain under the name Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.

Items recovered from the illegal mining site included a pumping machine, five head pans, 13 carpets or rugs, six shovels, 15 mobile phones, a power bank and four identity cards bearing the name Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.

The NSCDC said the two alleged leaders, “Area” and Abu Mawain, were still at large, adding that efforts were ongoing to locate and apprehend them.

The arrested suspects, according to the Command, have made statements admitting their involvement and would be charged to court after investigation.

The NSCDC Edo State Command further warned that it would not allow criminal elements to plunder the state’s natural resources, stressing that illegal mining had no place in Edo State.

The Commandant said the Mining Marshal Unit had been directed to intensify operations against illegal mining activities across the state, including efforts to identify financiers, sponsors and other individuals benefiting from the illegal exploitation of mineral resources.

The Command also commended the officers involved in the operation for their courage and commitment, while urging members of the public to continue providing credible information that could assist security agencies in tackling illegal mining.