EFCC partners NUJ to tackle illegal mining, cybercrime in Niger

By Baba Alfa, Minna

In a significant development aimed at curbing the growing menace of illegal mining and cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

The initiative, designed to fortify efforts in combatting these crimes in Niger State and across Nigeria, was revealed during a visit to the NUJ office in Minna by the EFCC’s acting Zonal Director for Kaduna, Bawa Usman Kaltungo.

“The battle against illegal mining and cybercrime cannot rest solely on the shoulders of the EFCC, emphatically during the press briefing. “This is a collective responsibility. We want journalists to take ownership of this fight and help us spread the message far and wide. Together, we can bring an end to these destructive activities,”Kaltungo stated.

Kaltungo, who led the EFCC delegation to Minna, cited recent successes in the Commission’s operations.

“We have already apprehended four Chinese nationals and 21 others in Plateau State, alongside 33 more illegal miners, all of whom will soon face charges in court,” he revealed.

He further reassured the public that the officers involved in the raids were legitimate EFCC personnel, dispelling any concerns about the authenticity of the operations.

Responding to the EFCC’s call for partnership, Comrade Abu Nmodu, the State Chairman of the NUJ, expressed grave concern over the increasing prevalence of cybercrime in Niger State.