Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested 15 suspects for their alleged involvement in illegal dealing in radioactive solid minerals.
The suspects were apprehended by officers of the commission’s Kaduna Zonal Directorate last Sunday, along the Suleja-Maji Road in Niger State.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were intercepted while transporting the suspected radioactive minerals in three trucks to different locations across the country for purposes yet to be disclosed.
The anti-graft agency said the arrest followed intelligence reports on illegal mining and movement of sensitive solid mineral resources within the region.
Investigators believe the suspects were involved in the unlawful transportation and possible commercial distribution of the minerals, raising concerns over regulatory compliance and environmental safety.
The EFCC did not immediately disclose the identities of the suspects but confirmed that all 15 are male.
Officials of the commission stated that the intercepted trucks and the suspected radioactive minerals have been taken into custody as part of ongoing investigations.
The suspects are currently being detained at the EFCC’s Kaduna Zonal Directorate where they are undergoing further interrogation.
The commission said investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the minerals, the intended destinations and whether other individuals or companies are involved in the illegal operation.
The EFCC added that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
