Mining Marshals Arraign 15 Chinese, 9 Nigerians Over Illegal Lithium Mining in Nasarawa
The Mining Marshals have brought charges against 15 Chinese nationals, nine Nigerians, and a mining company for alleged illegal lithium mining activities in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The defendants were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja following their arrest on May 16, 2026. They are accused of conducting mining operations without the necessary legal authority or license within a mineral title area owned by TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd. The charges, which fall under the Miscellaneous Offences Act, could result in life imprisonment if the defendants are convicted. The court granted bail to the defendants, requiring them to surrender their international passports and national identity cards. The trial is set to continue on June 18, 2026. 
