EFCC Nabs Eight, Seizes Six Trucks Over Illegal Mining in Kwara

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining, arresting eight suspects and impounding six trucks allegedly loaded with illegally excavated minerals along the Ilorin–Ogbomoso axis spanning Kwara State and Oyo State.

Operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate carried out the operation on Saturday, February 20, 2026, following credible intelligence and days of coordinated surveillance targeting unlawful mineral extraction and transportation activities across the two states.

The anti-graft agency disclosed that the suspects were intercepted last weekend alongside six truckloads of assorted minerals suspected to be lithium and kaolin—valuable resources increasingly linked to Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

With the latest arrests, the EFCC confirmed that 18 individuals have been apprehended within the past month by the Ilorin Zonal Directorate over suspected illegal mining operations in the region. The development signals a renewed enforcement drive against economic sabotage and environmental degradation associated with unauthorized mining.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects allegedly operated without the required licences, permits, or regulatory approvals governing mining activities in Nigeria.

The EFCC stated that the suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

The Commission reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources and prosecuting individuals or syndicates engaged in illicit mining activities.