The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ilorin Zonal Command, says it has impounded 12 trucks containing different types of solid minerals mined without a license in Kwara State.
While parading the suspects in Ilorin on Tuesday, the Zonal Commander of EFCC, Michael Nzekwe said that the suspects were arrested at various locations including Patigi, Igbeti and Ogbomoso areas near Kwara state.
He revealed that the offence is punishable with life imprisonment under Section 1(8) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17, 1983.
According to Nzekwe; most of the arrested suspects were truck drivers, and some of them had named foreign nationals and one or two Nigerians behind the menace.
He warned that the EFCC would not relent in its efforts to fight against corruption just as it is leaving no stone unturned in breaking the rings of the illegal mining operators across the country.
He said that the suspects would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigations.
