EFCC Arrests Seven Chinese Nationals, Four Others For Illegal Mining In Akwa-Ibom
In a statement released by the commission, it disclosed that: “Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested eleven suspected illegal miners for engaging in mining activities without requisite licences.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested eleven individuals — seven Chinese nationals and four Nigerians — for allegedly engaging in illegal mining operations in Akwa Ibom State.
In a statement released by the commission, it disclosed that: “Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested eleven suspected illegal miners for engaging in mining activities without requisite licences.”
The suspects were apprehended on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Emem-Asuk community in the Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of the state.
According to the EFCC, the foreign nationals arrested include Yang Chaobao, 32; Zhong Dun Yi, 33; Cheng Jiang, 35; Zhong Dun Long, 37; Pan Peiming, 33; Lai Yiping, 37; and Zhu Lekun, 35.
The Nigerians arrested alongside them are David Israel, 18; Jonah Bartholomew Jim, 24; Samuel Samuel Timothy, 20; and a 23-year-old female translator identified as Comfort Gabriel Ajaga.
The EFCC stated that the “suspects are operating two illegal mining sites at Eastern Obolo Local Government Area where they were arrested whilst setting up mining equipment at a second location. They were already engaged in illegal mining activities at their first location where they were mining ilmenite locally called ‘black sand’.”
During interrogation, Comfort Gabriel Ajaga, the only female suspect, claimed her involvement was solely as a translator.
“I am a student, and I am studying Chinese language at a Learning Centre in Anambra State and I only work with them as a translator,” she said.
The commission has confirmed that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
