Nigerian Army Arrests 13 Suspected Illegal Miners in Abuja

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation MESA have arrested 13 suspected illegal miners at a newly excavated mining site in the Shere general area of Bwari Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The suspects were reportedly apprehended at about 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, during a security operation conducted by troops of the 7 Guards Battalion.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the arrest in a post on X, citing security sources familiar with the operation.

According to the report, the suspects were found at a newly excavated site believed to be operating without the required authorisation.

Makama said the 13 suspects had been taken into military custody for further action.

He quoted the security sources as saying, “The 13 suspects are currently in military custody for further action.”

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to tackle illegal mining, prevent the unauthorised exploitation of mineral resources and address security concerns linked to such activities within the FCT.