NSCDC impounds trucks carrying precious stones in Zamfara

Three trucks carrying precious stones in Zamfara State have been impounded by the State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC).

Muhammed Muazu, the state commandant of NSCDC, told newsmen at a news briefing on Monday that the drivers had no legal documents for security clearance as the trucks loaded with precious stones were intercepted in Gusau on their way to Sokoto.

According to him, “We have no problem with the drivers or vehicles, rather the owners were to provide necessary evidence that will permit them to engage in the business.”

He explained that licence to possess and purchase minerals, evidence of royalty payment, mineral title if the solid mineral is coming from a legal source, agent movement permit and mineral buying centre certificate are the requirements for every person or corporate body to take part in the transaction of any mineral deposits.

The commandant further explained that the drivers and whosoever involved should be prosecuted while the truck and its contents impounded by the federal government as the law stipulates if those documents are not presented.

He added that the trucks impounded and their drivers would be prosecuted if they failed within seven days to provide legal documents for engaging in the act.

He advised truck drivers to desist from conveying any mineral resources except if the owner provided legal documents to them.

The Commandant enjoined the National Union of Road Transport Workers to sensitise their members on the danger and legal implications of moving mineral resources without the necessary documents of the law by the Federal Ministry of Mining and Solid Minerals, saying that anybody caught will faced the full wrath of the law.