Category: News

A 32-year-old Nigerian national, identified as Jones Duro Michael, was arrested by the Prohibition Enforcement Wing (PEW) on Saturday night near the Vijayamangalam toll gate in Erode, Tamil Nadu, for possession of methamphetamine valued at ₹15 lakh. Michael, reportedly a footballer, was apprehended by a PEW team led by Inspector S. Sivahami Rani following a tip-off. During interrogation, it was discovered that he lacked valid travel and residency documents, raising concerns about his legal status in the country. “His passport expired in 2023, and preliminary findings suggest he may have illegally entered India via sea. Further investigations are ongoing,” said Inspector Rani. Michael has been remanded to judicial custody at the Coimbatore Central Prison and faces charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Foreigners Act. In a related development, police also arrested Melvin (49), a resident of Perundurai, for renting his property to Michael without verifying his identity or documentation, a violation under housing and foreigner registration regulations. The arrest highlights ongoing concerns regarding drug trafficking and illegal immigration, and authorities have vowed to intensify surveillance and community awareness efforts in the region. By Kamal Yalwa

Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 120 suspected internet fraudsters in a major crackdown across various locations in Lagos State. The suspects—comprising 95 males and 25 females—were apprehended on Monday, May 19, 2025, following credible intelligence and extensive surveillance operations carried out by the anti-graft agency. According to a statement by the EFCC, the coordinated sting operation led to the recovery of 26 exotic vehicles, high-end jewelry, smartphones, laptops, and several incriminating documents linked to cybercrime activities. All suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation. The EFCC noted that they will be formally arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the ongoing probe. The commission reiterated its commitment to eradicating internet fraud and urged the public to continue providing useful information to aid its mission.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has presented a cheque of ₦30 million to the family of the late Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Ebisingha Alari, in a moving gesture that underscores the values of sacrifice, duty, and national gratitude. The presentation, which took place in Maiduguri, serves as a poignant reminder of the courage and selflessness of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, particularly those who have paid the ultimate price in the fight against terrorism. Governor Zulum praised the late officer’s bravery and dedication, emphasizing that the gesture was not just about financial support, but a demonstration of the state’s deep appreciation for those who defend the nation’s peace and security. “This is not just a cheque. It is a symbol of our collective gratitude and a message that the sacrifices made by our gallant soldiers will never be forgotten,” the governor said. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the families of military personnel who have lost their lives in active service, noting that true leadership must include compassion and acknowledgment of those who safeguard the nation. Such acts of recognition, Governor Zulum said, not only provide comfort to grieving families but also inspire continued patriotism and hope among serving officers and citizens alike. “The families of our fallen heroes deserve more than just words—they deserve action that honors their sacrifice and gives them a sense of dignity,” he added. Lieutenant Colonel Alari was celebrated for his outstanding service and leadership in counterterrorism operations in the North-East before his untimely death in the line of duty.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has emphasized the importance of deepening collaboration between China and Nigeria, particularly through the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) factories to harness Nigeria’s vast solid mineral resources. Ambassador Dunhai made this call during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in Abuja. During the visit, he highlighted the potential for Nigeria’s industrial growth through enhanced bilateral ties, particularly in mining and manufacturing. A statement released by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Sunday confirmed that China is planning to set up EV manufacturing plants in Nigeria as part of its broader strategy to support African industrialization. “Nigeria is a great country blessed with tremendous natural resources,” Ambassador Dunhai said. “China places Nigeria at a strategic position in its foreign policy.” Recalling the recent meeting between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping during Tinubu’s state visit to China, the ambassador noted that both leaders had agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This, he said, would open new avenues for cooperation. In response, Minister Alake reaffirmed Nigeria’s openness to genuine foreign investments, particularly those that support local value addition within the mining sector. “For years, our minerals have been exported raw to fuel foreign industrialisation. That must change,” Alake said. “We now prioritise local processing to drive Nigeria’s development. For instance, with the abundance of lithium, we want to see local manufacturing of electric vehicles and batteries.” Ambassador Dunhai welcomed the policy direction, stating that Chinese firms are already significantly involved in Nigeria’s mining sector. He confirmed that plans are in motion to establish electric vehicle factories and other industrial ventures in the country, aligning with President Tinubu’s economic diversification agenda. He also assured that Chinese companies operating in Nigeria are regularly reminded to abide by local laws, uphold environmental and safety standards, and fulfil their corporate social responsibilities. “The Chinese government has zero tolerance for illegal mining and is committed to working with Nigerian authorities to bring offenders to justice,” he stated. Minister Alake, while appreciating the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries, expressed concern over a few rogue operators tarnishing China’s image, citing a recent viral video of a Chinese national allegedly bribing local security agents. “We have taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals. While isolated, such incidents undermine the good work of many compliant Chinese firms,” he said. The minister also praised the efforts of the newly established Mining Marshals, who are tackling illegal mining across the country. He noted that the initiative has significantly improved compliance and regulatory adherence among mining stakeholders.