The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended eleven individuals, including seven Chinese nationals and four Nigerians, in Akwa Ibom State for alleged involvement in illegal mining operations. The arrests took place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in the Emem-Asuk community of the Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.
Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Tuesday. He noted that the suspects were operating two illegal mining sites without the required licenses.
The arrested Chinese nationals were identified as Yang Chaobao (32), Zhong Dun Yi (33), Cheng Jiang (35), Zhong Dun Long (37), Pan Peiming (33), Lai Yiping (37), and Zhu Lekun (35). Their Nigerian alleged accomplices are David Israel (18), Jonah Bartholomew Jim (24), Samuel Samuel Timothy (20), and Comfort Gabriel Ajaga (23), who was reportedly working as a translator.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were caught as they were setting up equipment at a second mining location. They had already been engaged in the extraction of ilmenite, commonly known as “black sand,” at their initial site.
During interrogation, Comfort Gabriel Ajaga, the only female suspect, claimed her role was limited to translation services due to her fluency in Mandarin. She stated, “I am a student studying the Chinese language at a learning centre in Anambra State. I only work with them as a translator.”
The EFCC has confirmed that the suspects will face charges in court once investigations are concluded.
