Posted by Chinenye on Wed 02nd Sep, 2026 - tori.ng
A major security operation in Edo State has uncovered an alleged illegal gold-mining operation hidden deep inside a forest.
(Suspects. Photo by Instablog)
Nigeria's civil defence corps has arrested 19 suspected illegal gold miners in Edo State, though two alleged operators remain at large.
The arrests came during a raid on a mining site deep in the Okpella forest on Friday, August 28.
Officers navigated difficult terrain with poor roads, hills and thick bushes to locate the illegal operation in Etsako East and Akoko-Edo Local Government Areas.
The raid netted 19 suspects while two men escaped into the forest.
Investigation revealed the miners were working for two individuals one known as "Area" and another named Abu Mawain.
Fifteen suspects worked for Area while four worked for Mawain under a company called Gravity Pillars Concept Ltd.
Officers recovered equipment including a pumping machine, five head pans, thirteen carpets, six shovels, fifteen mobile phones, a power bank and four identity cards bearing Gravity Pillars Concept's name.
The arrested men have admitted their involvement in illegal mining and will face charges after the investigation finishes.
The two alleged operators are still being hunted.
The civil defence commander said the operation is part of efforts to stop illegal mining and protect Edo State's natural resources.
He directed officers to intensify searches across the state and identify not just workers but also financiers, sponsors and anyone benefiting from illegal mining.
He praised the governor for providing support and thanked the officers who conducted the raid.
He urged the public to report illegal mining activity and promised that anyone violating the law would be arrested and prosecuted.