The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian over alleged illegal lithium processing at four suspected plants in Ogere, Ogun State.
The suspects were reportedly arrested on Friday, October 23, 2026, following intelligence gathering and surveillance by operatives of the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2.
According to the commission, items recovered during the operation included bags of lithium rocks, 18 mobile phones, four laptops, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.
The EFCC stated that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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The latest arrests form part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to tackle suspected illegal mining and mineral trading activities in Ogun State.
In May 2025, the agency arrested two Chinese nationals and six Nigerians in Ogere over alleged illegal mining, recovering three trucks carrying substances suspected to be ground lithium powder and other solid minerals.
Similarly, in May 2026, the Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the final forfeiture of assets linked to alleged illegal mining activities in Ogun State to the Federal Government. The assets included a mining site, trucks, and quantities of lithium and mica stones.
The EFCC has yet to announce further details regarding the latest arrests, as investigations continue.
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