The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have brought 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged illegal mining activities in Nasarawa State.

The suspects were arraigned before Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia at Court 6 of the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, following their arrest on May 16, 2026.

According to the NSCDC, the accused persons were allegedly caught engaging in unauthorised lithium mining activities in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State without any lawful authority or valid mining licence.The corps further stated that the illegal operations took place within a mineral title area covered by Exploration Licence No.036528-EL, which belongs to TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd.

The NSCDC explained that the suspects were apprehended within specific coordinates identified as longitude 8° 4’ 12”E and latitude 8° 34’ 12”N, where the alleged mining activities were ongoing.

The defendants include several Chinese nationals as well as Nigerian citizens, alongside C and A International New Energy Ltd, which was also named in the charges.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to clamp down on illegal mining, especially in areas rich in strategic minerals like lithium, which has become highly valuable globally.After their arraignment, the court adjourned the matter and fixed June 18, 2026, for the commencement of trial.The prosecution is expected to present evidence relating to the alleged illegal extraction activities and breach of mining regulations.

The case is being closely watched due to the involvement of foreign nationals and the increasing attention on illegal mining operations in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.