NSCDC Rescues Abducted Teen, Cracks Down on Illegal Mining in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has scored major victories in the fight against child exploitation and illegal mining, rescuing a 14-year-old boy after a year-long abduction and apprehending eight suspects involved in various offenses.

Acting on credible intelligence, NSCDC personnel led by Commandant Eluwade Eluyemi raided an apartment in Ndom Ebom, Uruan LGA, where they found 14-year-old Wisdom Aniekpeno Efiok, who had been missing since January 2023. Efiok was reportedly abducted and forced to work for a year, carrying out fishing activities in riverine areas up to the high seas and even crossing into Cameroon.

Seven suspects were arrested in the operation, including the alleged mastermind, Mr. Otobong Aneitie Udoekong. He faces charges of criminal conspiracy, abduction of a minor, and subjecting the victim to child labor. The remaining suspects are undergoing profiling to determine their roles in the crime.

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In a separate operation, the NSCDC arrested Mr. Peter Ime Okon for engaging in illegal mining activity at a borrow pit site in Ekpri Nsukara, Uyo LGA. Two tipper trucks and a Peugeot car used in the illegal operation were also impounded.

Commandant Eluwade reiterated the illegality of mining without a license and highlighted the devastating environmental consequences and loss of revenue to the government associated with such activities. He vowed that the NSCDC will remain relentless in protecting Akwa Ibom from illegal mining.

The rescued boy will receive necessary support and be reunited with his family upon completion of investigations. The suspects involved in abduction and child labor will be handed over to the relevant agency for prosecution, while Mr. Okon will face charges in court for illegal mining.

By Bliss Anthony