EFCC Arrests 14 Chinese Nationals, Nigerian Over Illegal Lithium Processing in Ogun
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 15 suspects, including 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, over alleged illegal lithium processing activities at four plants in Ogere, Ogun State.
The commission disclosed this in a statement posted on its verified X handle, saying operatives of its Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 carried out the operation on Friday, October 23, 2026, following credible intelligence and surveillance.
During the operation, the EFCC said its operatives recovered bags of lithium-bearing rocks, 18 mobile devices, four laptop computers, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.
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The commission added that the suspects would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
Lithium is a critical mineral used in manufacturing rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, mobile phones, computers and other electronic devices. Its growing global demand has increased the importance of regulating its extraction, processing and trade.
The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by the EFCC to tackle alleged illegal activities involving valuable mineral resources and ensure compliance with relevant laws.
Further details regarding the identities of the suspects, the ownership of the processing plants and the scale of the alleged operations were not provided in the statement.
By PRNigeria
