The Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended five Chinese nationals suspected of illegal mining in Akwa Ibom State. The arrests took place at Ndito-Eka-Iba village in Ibieno Local Government Area.
According to Mr. Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Head of Media & Publicity, the suspects were captured by the EFCC’s Special Task Force on Illegal Mining. This operation followed credible intelligence on illegal mining activities by foreign companies in Eket and Ibieno Local Government Areas.
The arrested individuals are: Zhon Qinping (September 10, 2024), Li Yi (August 29, 2024), Xie Bin (August 29, 2024), Chen Mou Zhou (August 29, 2024), and Chen Zeng (August 29, 2024). They were found at a site believed to be extracting ilmenite, a titanium-iron oxide mineral.
The suspects will face charges in court once the investigation is completed.