The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured an interim court order to attach nine trucks loaded with solid minerals in Kwara State. The order, granted by the Federal High Court in Ilorin, forms part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the state and neighbouring Oyo.
The Facts
- EFCC obtained an interim attachment order on nine trucks carrying solid minerals.
- The order was granted by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Ilorin.
- The trucks were intercepted during a sting operation on February 1, 2026.
- Investigations suggest the minerals were allegedly mined and transported without lawful authority.
- The court also ordered the final forfeiture of minerals in one additional truck declared unclaimed.
What Happened
The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday secured an interim attachment order on nine trucks allegedly involved in illegal mining activities in Kwara and Oyo States.
According to the Commission, the trucks were intercepted during a sting operation carried out on February 1, 2026. Several suspects were arrested during the operation. The vehicles were reportedly conveying assorted solid minerals suspected to have been sourced from unlicensed mining operations.
Following the operation, the EFCC approached the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin through an ex-parte application. The Commission sought an interim attachment of the trucks under Sections 6(d), 7(2), and 34(1) of the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004, as well as Section 329 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
EFCC counsel Cosmas Ugwu, while moving the application, urged the court to restrain any disposal, sale, lease, mortgage, or tampering with the trucks and their contents pending the conclusion of investigations.
Justice Abimbola Awogboro granted the application and ordered the interim forfeiture of the nine trucks and their mineral contents.
Vehicles Affected
Among the affected vehicles are:
- A Dongfeng truck with registration number T23-938-LA
- A DAF truck marked DKU 566 XA
- A Shacman truck with registration number AAA 95 YN
- A Howo truck with registration number TRE 419 YJ
In a related development, the court also ordered the final forfeiture of solid minerals contained in a separate truck with registration number LRN 122 XXX. The property was declared unclaimed before coming into the possession of the Commission.
Where and Who Is Affected
The operation highlights ongoing enforcement efforts in Kwara State, particularly within the Ilorin axis. Illegal mining has increasingly drawn regulatory attention due to environmental concerns, revenue losses, and security implications in affected communities.
Kwara has several solid mineral deposits, making it a focal point for both licensed and unlicensed mining activities. Authorities have previously warned that unregulated extraction poses risks to local communities and state revenue generation.
Background
Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is regulated by federal laws requiring proper licensing and operational permits. Illegal mining has remained a challenge across several states, prompting periodic crackdowns by federal agencies.
The EFCC has, in recent years, expanded its enforcement focus to include economic crimes related to illegal resource extraction.
Official Response
According to the EFCC, investigations are ongoing. The interim order restrains any form of interference with the seized trucks and their contents until investigations are concluded.
No further official statement was available at the time of writing regarding the suspects arrested during the operation.
Community Reaction
Reactions are still emerging.
What Happens Next
The interim forfeiture means the trucks will remain under EFCC custody pending the outcome of investigations and possible prosecution. Further legal proceedings may determine whether permanent forfeiture orders will be issued.
Authorities are expected to continue surveillance and enforcement operations targeting illegal mining activities in the state.
Sources: EFCC seizes mineral trucks in Kwara
Sources: Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Federal High Court Ilorin
