EFCC Arrests Three Suspected Illegal Gold Miners in Maiduguri

March 18, 2026, Maiduguri, Borno State

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Maiduguri Zonal Directorate, have arrested three individuals suspected to be involved in illegal gold mining activities in Borno State.

The suspects—Umar Muhammad, Modu Bamai Umar, and Sani Samaila—were apprehended in Mallam Jakwa Town, located in Hawul Local Government Area, following credible intelligence linking them to unlawful mining operations.

According to the Commission, the suspects’ activities are believed to be contributing to rising insecurity and environmental degradation within the state. Illegal mining has increasingly been associated with the funding of criminal activities and the destruction of natural resources in affected communities.

Items recovered from the suspects at the point of arrest include a small gold measuring machine and quantities of mined gold.

The EFCC stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.