On June 12, 2026, the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) closed seven mineral processing and buying facilities in Kontagora, Niger State. Led by Commander John Attah Onoja, the operation targeted entities suspected of violating national mining laws. The affected firms 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 an additional unnamed facility.
Four individuals associated with these companies were taken into custody. Authorities initiated the raid after receiving intelligence that these businesses were purchasing strategic minerals from questionable sources without proper legal authorization. Investigations revealed that representatives often bought Monazite from suppliers who lacked mandatory permits, such as Small-Scale Mining Leases or Licences to Purchase and Possess Minerals. Representatives from AL-YAMAN and 17 Mines & Minerals admitted to conducting transactions without verifying the legal status of their suppliers.
The operation resulted in the seizure of Monazite, Iron Ore, and Zircon valued at several million naira. Official reports concluded there was strong evidence of regulatory non-compliance, suggesting the processed materials may have originated from illegal mining sites. Commander Onoja emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader mission to clean up the solid minerals industry and eliminate illegal trading networks, noting that the absence of buyers will help deter unauthorized mining.
