The EFCC arrested 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian over illegal lithium processing operations at four plants in Ogun State.
Operatives of the EFCC have successfully arrested fifteen individuals, including fourteen Chinese nationals and one Nigerian citizen, for running illegal lithium processing facilities across four different locations.
The major security crackdown took place on Friday, October 23, 2026, in the Ogere area of Ogun State, following weeks of careful intelligence gathering and secret surveillance carried out by special field operatives from the anti-graft agency’s Lagos Zonal Directorate.
The sudden raid highlights the federal government’s ongoing efforts to stop illegal mining and protect valuable solid mineral resources from being smuggled out of the country without proper government permits.
The secret processing plants had been operating secretly within local communities before security agents stormed the premises to seize valuable mining equipment and raw mineral materials.
During the well-coordinated operation, security operatives recovered several bags filled with raw lithium rocks, 18 mobile phones, 4 laptop computers, television remote controls, and a heavy-duty trailer truck used for moving materials.
Explaining the details of the raid and confirming the next legal steps for the arrested suspects, the commission’s public relations office released an official statement to update the public.
Announcing the success of the operation and assuring citizens that justice will take its course, the commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, stated: “The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.”
Mining experts and economic analysts have repeatedly pointed out that lithium has become one of the most valuable minerals in the world today because it is heavily used to manufacture rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and various electronic devices.
While the federal government is trying hard to grow the solid minerals sector and move the national economy away from depending entirely on crude oil, illegal operators have tried to exploit local communities without paying proper taxes or following environmental laws.
Community leaders and residents in Ogun State expressed happiness over the quick intervention of the anti-graft agency, noting that illegal industrial operations damage local roads and create safety hazards for farmers and families living nearby.
The anti-corruption agency has intensified its nationwide search for foreign and local individuals operating illegal mining sites across different states.
Jennifer Baba is a journalist, international news correspondent, and writer at Moderncrux, where she covers artificial intelligence, fintech, emerging technologies, global politics, and international affairs. Based in Nigeria, she is passionate about transforming complex global developments into clear, engaging stories that inform and inspire readers.
