Troops intercept four trucks carrying illegal mining products in Akwa Ibom

Troops of the Joint Task Force in the South-South have intercepted four trucks conveying suspected illegal mining products in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Security sources said the trucks, believed to be carrying glass sand, were intercepted at about 5:00 p.m. on March 14 during a snap checkpoint operation conducted by troops of Section 4, 2 Brigade under Operation Delta Safe.

The interception reportedly took place at Ama Friday Junction, where the vehicles were stopped for inspection.

According to the sources, the drivers of the trucks were unable to present valid documents to explain the origin or authorization for transporting the mining products.

Following the discovery, the trucks and their drivers were taken to the headquarters of the 2 Brigade for further investigation and verification of the ownership and legality of the mineral resources being transported.

Security officials said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Joint Task Force to curb illegal mining and enforce regulations governing mineral exploitation in the South-South region.

Authorities also warned that vehicles transporting mining products without proper documentation would continue to be intercepted and subjected to strict checks to prevent unlawful exploitation of the country’s natural resources.