The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has intercepted three trucks conveying precious stones in Zamfara without a permit.

At a press briefing on Monday, the NSCDC commandant in Zamfara, Muhammed Muazu, disclosed that the trucks were intercepted in Gusau en route to Sokoto as the drivers had no legal documents for security clearance.

The commandant said, “We have no problem with the drivers or vehicles; the owners were to provide the necessary evidence that will permit them to engage in the business.”

He explained that people or corporate bodies taking part in transacting any mineral deposits must have the licence to possess and purchase minerals, evidence of royalty payment, mineral title if the solid mineral comes from a legal source, agent movement permit, and mineral buying centre certificate.

He said the trucks were impounded, and the drivers had a seven-day ultimatum to provide legal documents, or they would be prosecuted.

The commandant warned truck drivers to avoid conveying mineral resources without legal documents.

He called on the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to sensitise their members on the danger and legal implications of moving mineral resources without the necessary documents of the law.

Mr Muazu maintained that the federal government would impound trucks and prosecute drivers and others involved in the illegal quarrying of precious stones in Zamfara.

(NAN)