EFCC Arrests Two Chinese, Six Nigerians Over Illegal Mining in Ogun

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Directorate 1, have arrested eight individuals — two Chinese nationals and six Nigerians — for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities in the Ogere area of Ogun State.

The suspects, identified as Zhang Hang Lin, Gao Pei Hai, Matthew Mathias, Oluwaseun Amoo, Wasiu Ademola Alao, Ajibola Nurudeen, Ibrahim Yinusa, and Saidu Shuaibu, were apprehended on Friday, May 9, 2025, during a sting operation.

According to the EFCC, the arrests followed credible intelligence and surveillance which revealed the suspects’ involvement in unauthorized mining operations. At the time of arrest, operatives recovered three trucks loaded with sacks of what is believed to be ground lithium powder, as well as other unidentified solid minerals.

In addition to the mineral-laden trucks, other items seized from the suspects include a Toyota 4Runner SUV, multiple mobile phones, samples of low-grade lithium, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards, international passports, four LED flashlights, and several documents.

The EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court upon its conclusion.

The Commission reiterated its commitment to combating economic and environmental crimes, including illegal mining, which it described as a growing threat to Nigeria’s natural resources and national economy.