The Anambra State Government has paraded 16 people accused of illegally collecting revenue and engaging in unauthorized sand mining, causing distress to residents and motorists in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
Among the arrested, five were apprehended while falsely posing as government revenue collectors, while the remaining 11 were caught dredging sand from restricted areas near the Second Niger Bridge, which had been sealed by the state government.
Speaking during the parade of the suspects in Awka, Comrade Celestine Anere, Managing Director of Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade), explained that these individuals, unrecognized by the government, have been extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public and even dispossessing some of their property.
On the issue of illegal sand mining, Comrade Anere urged all stakeholders to strictly comply with government regulations by securing the necessary permits from authorized state agencies. He further warned that the state would continue to take decisive action against any person or group found in violation of the law.
Mr. Obiorah Arinze, the leader of the suspected illegal revenue collectors, claimed that he was hired by Nwa Chike-Aba Nigeria Limited, believing the company had secured all required government permits and approvals.
