Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested eleven individuals, including seven Chinese nationals and four Nigerians, for alleged illegal mining activities in Akwa Ibom State.
The arrests were made on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Emem-Asuk community in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area. According to the EFCC, the suspects were operating without valid mining licences.
The Chinese suspects have been identified as Yang Chaobao (32), Zhong Dun Yi (33), Cheng Jiang (35), Zhong Dun Long (37), Pan Peiming (33), Lai Yiping (37), and Zhu Lekun (35). Their Nigerian accomplices are David Israel (18), Jonah Bartholomew Jim (24), Samuel Samuel Timothy (20), and Comfort Gabriel Ajaga (23), a female translator.
EFCC investigations revealed that the group was operating two illegal mining sites in the area. They were apprehended while installing equipment at a second location, having already commenced operations at the first, where they were mining ilmenite—locally known as “black sand.”
During interrogation, Ajaga claimed her involvement was limited to serving as a translator, citing her fluency in Mandarin and status as a student of the Chinese language at a learning centre in Anambra State.
The anti-graft agency said the suspects will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.
