15 Chinese, 9 Nigerians Arraigned Over Alleged Illegal Lithium Mining in Nasarawa
The Mining Marshals have arraigned 15 Chinese nationals, nine Nigerians, and a mining company before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged illegal lithium mining activities in Nasarawa State.
The defendants were arrested during a joint enforcement operation on May 16, 2026, in Kokona Local Government Area, a mineral-rich area known for its growing lithium deposits.
Prosecutors alleged that the accused persons carried out mining operations without proper authorisation within a licensed exploration area belonging to TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd.
Court filings show the defendants were charged under the Miscellaneous Offences Act for allegedly engaging in unlawful extraction of solid minerals without valid permits.
Authorities say illegal mining remains a major economic and environmental concern, leading to revenue losses and damage to regulated mining operations across the country.
The case has been adjourned for further hearing.
