EFCC arrests 15 suspects over alleged illegal dealing in radioactive solid minerals after intercepting trucks along Suleja–Maji Road in Niger State

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested 15 male suspects for alleged involvement in the illegal dealing of radioactive solid minerals linked to activities in Kaduna State.

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The arrests were disclosed on Tuesday by the spokesperson for the anti-graft agency, Dele Oyewale, in a statement issued by the commission.

According to Dele Oyewale, operatives from the Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission intercepted the suspects on Sunday, March 8, 2026, along the Suleja–Maji Road in Niger State during a targeted operation.

The suspects were reportedly transporting the suspected radioactive solid minerals in three trucks at the time of their arrest.

Investigators believe the materials were being conveyed to several locations across Nigeria for purposes that have not yet been disclosed.

The operation forms part of the commission’s broader efforts to clamp down on illegal mining and the illicit trade in strategic minerals, a growing concern for authorities due to the environmental and security risks associated with unregulated extraction and distribution.

Dele Oyewale said the suspects are currently in custody at the Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission where further investigations are ongoing.

The commission added that the suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.

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The arrest highlights increasing scrutiny of illegal mineral trading networks in Nigeria, particularly those involving materials that may pose potential environmental or safety hazards if improperly handled.