The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 13 Chinese nationals over the offenses of bordering on illegal mining activities in Ilorin, Kwara State.
EFCC made a press release on Thursday, July 13, which states that the offense is contrary to, and punishable under Section 1(8) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offenses Act Cap M17, 1983.
“The suspects, which comprise of a female and 12 male, were arrested on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at G.R.A llorin following credible intelligence about their activities which included but not limited to, illegal mining and non-payment of royalties to the Federal Government as required by law.
The suspects are identified as Guo Ya Wang (36), Lizli Hui (42), Guo Jian Rong (36), Lizh Shen Xianian (37), Lishow Wu (26), Guo Pan (38), Lia Meiyu (53), Guo Kai Quan (36) and Lin Pan (50).
Others are Ma Jan (38), Wendy Wei Suqin (31), Li Zhinguo Wei (29) and Xie Zhinguo (53).
During interrogation, it was discovered that the suspects confessed to be workers of a Chinese Company in Ifelodun Local Council. It was gathered that the company was producing marble and selling within Nigeria.
Findings also revealed that some of the employees were without Work Permit, but only came with Visit Permit from China to Abuja and travelled by road to llorin.
Within the last eight months, no fewer than 80 illegal operators have reportedly been arrested by the llorin Zonal Command of EFCC and 24 truckloads of assorted minerals impounded,” the statement reads.
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