The NSCDC in Kwara warned miners that claiming not to know mining laws will not stop arrests and prosecution of illegal operators.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has issued a stern warning to miners, site owners, and solid mineral operators across Kwara State, stating that claiming not to know the law will not stop them from being arrested and taken to court.
The official security warning was given on Monday, September 7, 2026, by the Kwara State Command of the security agency during a sensitization workshop held in Ilorin.
The meeting brought together licensed mining operators, site laborers, community leaders, and mineral traders to discuss how to follow proper mining rules and protect public land.
Security commanders made it very clear that any person caught digging for minerals without official government papers will face full legal prosecution and go to jail.
The main reason the Civil Defence Corps organized this public warning is to protect the nation’s natural wealth, stop dangerous environmental destruction, and prevent loss of government funds.
Illegal mining has caused heavy damage in many rural communities, destroying fertile farmlands, polluting local rivers, and creating deep abandoned pits that trap innocent children and farm animals.
Furthermore, illegal mining activities attract bad gang members and criminal groups into peaceful villages. By warning everyone early and explaining the exact rules, security officers want all miners to get proper licenses, pay correct taxes to the government, and use safe methods while working in the field.
The agency reassured licensed miners who follow the law that security forces will protect their business investments from criminals and bad operators.
Delivering the main message during the meeting, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps warned that excuse-making will not work in court.
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Outlining the strict stance of the security agency, Commandant Umar Mohammed stated that “ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Anyone caught operating without a valid license or violating mining regulations will face the full weight of the law.”
Explaining how the agency plans to keep watch over all mining sites, the security chief highlighted the work of special monitoring teams.
Emphasizing the continuous field operations across towns and villages, Commandant Umar Mohammed added that “our specialized mining marshals are actively monitoring mining sites across Kwara State to curb illegal activities, protect legitimate operators, and ensure environmental safety.” Civil Defence mining marshals have already started raiding illegal mining spots across Kwara State.
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.
