Security operatives have intercepted seven trucks conveying illegally mined lithium ore in a coordinated operation involving the South West Zonal Office of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kwara State.
The operation, which was intelligence-driven, led to the interception of the convoy along the Saki, Oyo State–Ilorin, Kwara State route. The trucks were reportedly transporting lithium ore suspected to have been illegally mined and moved without the requisite authorisation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the drivers of the trucks admitted they were hired to convey the mineral consignment.
Officials also recovered documents linked to the mine site, which are expected to aid ongoing investigations and help identify those behind the illegal operation.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has reiterated the Federal Government’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining, stressing that such activities undermine national revenue, environmental sustainability and community safety.
He warned that individuals and syndicates involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of solid minerals would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Officials of the ministry said the interception reflects the government’s renewed commitment to sanitising the solid minerals sector through strengthened inter-agency collaboration, intelligence-led enforcement and strict regulatory oversight.
The seized trucks and mineral ores have been taken into custody, while further investigations continue to track down the masterminds behind the illegal mining and transportation network.
Authorities have assured the public that similar operations will be intensified across mining corridors to curb illegal activities and protect Nigeria’s mineral resources.
