The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested three men over alleged illegal mining and unlawful transportation of suspected solid minerals in Ilorin, the state capital.

The suspects, identified as Musa Abdullahi (45), Aliyu Ibrahim (20), and Ishaq Ibrahim (51), were arrested during an intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Mines and Steel Unit attached to the command’s Special Patrol Team.

According to the NSCDC, the suspects were intercepted on Friday, May 22, 2026, along the Jebba Expressway in the Okolowo area of Ilorin during a late-night operation.

The State Commandant, Abbas Mohammed, who confirmed the arrest while briefing journalists, said the operatives stopped a truck coming from Kaduna State with registration number DKA 990 XJ, allegedly carrying about 36 tonnes of suspected lithium ore.

He said preliminary investigations showed that the suspects failed to present valid mining licences, waybills, or other documents authorising the transportation of the mineral resources.

The commandant described the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining and economic sabotage in the state.

He added that investigations were ongoing to trace the origin of the minerals, identify other individuals involved, and determine the company linked to the consignment.

Mohammed assured that the suspects would be prosecuted after investigations are concluded, reaffirming the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and curbing illegal mining activities in Kwara State.