The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps’ Mining Marshals have sealed seven suspected illegal mineral buying and processing facilities in Kontagora, Niger State, over alleged breaches of mining laws.

Commander ACC John Onoja said in an Abuja statement Friday that the June 12, 2026 operation followed intelligence that the sites were buying strategic minerals without federal approvals. Four suspects linked to some of the centres were also arrested.

Shut facilities include 17 Mines & Minerals Limited, LALO Mining Limited, AL-YAMAN Global Concept Nigeria Limited, SIMASS Mining & Trading Company Limited, YMJ Minerals & Mines Nigeria Limited, Dating Company Industry Limited, and another buying centre. Investigators said some operators admitted purchasing Monazite with only state or local revenue receipts, and lacked valid mining leases, SSML, LPPM or Mineral Buying Centre Licences required under the 2007 Act and 2011 Regulations. AL-YAMAN and 17 Mines & Minerals also reportedly bought minerals without verifying suppliers’ legal authority. Seized stock of Monazite, Iron Ore and Zircon is valued at several million naira. The NSCDC recommended licence verification, supplier probes, possible prosecution and forfeiture of all minerals to the FG.