An Abuja Federal High Court has remanded eight Chinese nationals and a Nigerian in Kuje Prison for alleged illegal mining activities in Abia State.
The defendants were arrested by the Mining Marshals, a security outfit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for mining without lawful authority and obstruction of lawful mining operations.
The trial began before Justice J.K Omotosho, with the prosecution filing a 3-count charge against the defendants.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has pledged to strengthen the operations of the Mining Marshals through technology and equipment to ensure the nation benefits from its mineral resources.
