The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured convictions against four Chinese nationals for illegal mining activities in Plateau State, Nigeria. Liang Quin Yong, Wang Huajie, Zhong Jiajing, and Long Kechong were sentenced to five years imprisonment each or a fine of N1 million each for unlawful purchase and possession of mineral resources.
The convicts were prosecuted on one-count separate charges bordering on dealing in illegal solid minerals mining.The court ruled that the convicts will not only face imprisonment or pay a fine but also be deported from Nigeria and banned from re-entering the country. Additionally, they will forfeit all proceeds of crime to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Liang Quin Yong will specifically forfeit N134,874,769.01, and there will be a forfeiture of entire mineral resources recovered during the investigation.
The EFCC’s efforts to curb illegal mining activities in Nigeria are evident in this case. The commission’s actions demonstrate its commitment to enforcing laws and regulations governing mineral resources in the country.
The convicts’ failure to report a financial transaction within seven days to the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) also resulted in an administrative fine of N16,300,000.
The outcome of this case highlights the importance of compliance with Nigeria’s laws and regulations governing mineral resources and financial transactions.
The EFCC’s continued efforts to prosecute individuals involved in illegal mining activities will likely serve as a deterrent to others. The initial report of a 20-year imprisonment sentence was later clarified, and the actual sentence reflects the court’s judgment.
