The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, Paul Odama, has assured the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ilorin Zonal Command of his readiness to assist the agency in the fight against illegal mining in the state.
He commended the efforts of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ilorin Zonal Command in checking illegal mining activities in the state.
Paul Odama gave the assurance on Friday when he paid a courtesy visit to the Commission’s Office along Catchment Close, GRA, Ilorin.
It would be recalled that the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC recently arrested no fewer than 80 persons over alleged illegal mining activities and impounded about 24 trucks of assorted crude minerals at different locations in the State.
One of the suspects was a Chinese national, Dang Deng who has been successfully prosecuted and found guilty of one count charge of possession of illegally mined minerals without lawful authority.
He was consequently sentenced to 5years imprisonment on Wednesday, by Justice Mohammed Sani of the Federal High Court, Ilorin.
The Commissioner of Police, who recently assumed duty in the state, described as “a bold step” the efforts of the EFCC in curbing the illegal mining activities in the State.
“I was amazed when I saw some of the impounded trucks on my way to your office this morning.
“And, I say to myself that EFCC is doing a wonderful job. We will collaborate with you in tackling the menace of illegal operators who are mining mineral deposits in the state for personal enrichment because it is a criminal offence under the law.
“It is indeed, an act of economic sabotage”, Odama said.
The Commissioner of Police said his visit was to strengthen the existing collaboration between the Police and the EFCC, particularly in the area of fighting economic and financial crimes.
He said that the collaboration would ensure that the citizens sleep at night with both eyes closed.
Odama said the Police and EFCC have come a long way and have over the years had good working relationships like brothers of the same parent.
“We are a family. I can assure you that we will provide you with whatever you require; operationally or in any other area that you may require our support, to stamp out corruption which has stagnated the progress of our country. Be assured of our maximum cooperation”, the Police boss stated.
Responding, the Ilorin Zonal Commander of the EFCC, Michael Nzekwe, appreciated the CP for the visit and the Nigeria Police Force for its support and contribution to the EFCC in discharging its duties.
“The Police has been a pillar of support to the EFCC and increased collaboration with the EFCC will greatly assist in curbing the menace of economic and financial crimes.
“We appreciate the Nigeria Police for the support and contribution it has rendered to the EFCC in discharging its duties over the years. We are grateful and we look out for more”, he said.