The Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned two Chinese nationals, Duan Ya Hong and Xiao Yi, along with their company, Ebuy Concept Limited, before Justice Evelyn Anyadike of the Federal High Court in Ilorin. The charges against them stem from their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities.
According to a statement released by the commission, the defendants were arraigned on a single count related to the possession of solid minerals without a license and non-payment of royalties to the Federal Government, as required by law.
The charge states that the defendants, Ebuy Trading Worldwide Nig.LTD, Duan Ya Hong, and Xiao Yi, unlawfully purchased minerals, specifically 30 tons of minerals conveyed in a truck with registration number JJJ 386 XT, in Banni, Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, in February 2024. This act is deemed to be an offense under Section 1(8)(b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act 1984.
During the arraignment, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge, which was read in English and interpreted to them in the Chinese language.
Following their pleas, the counsel to the EFCC, Innocent Mbachie, requested that the court remand the defendants in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service until the case is heard and determined. He also urged the court to set a trial date to allow the prosecution to present its case.
In response, the counsel to the defendants, A. A Aromolaran, requested that the court grant bail to his clients. He informed the court that the defendants’ international passports were already in the custody of the Commission, ensuring their availability for trial. Aromolaran further assured the court that the defendants would not interfere with the ongoing investigations or intimidate witnesses.
After considering the arguments from both sides, Justice Anyadike granted bail to the defendants in the sum of N5 million naira each, with two sureties each in the same amount. The judge specified that the sureties must be landowners within the jurisdiction of the court and must deposit the deeds of title of their properties with the court’s registry. Additionally, the sureties were required to provide evidence of payment of electricity bills for the past ten months and evidence of tax payments for the past three years.
Following the bail ruling, the judge ordered that the defendants be remanded in the custody of the EFCC until the bail conditions are met. The case was adjourned until May 16, 2024, for the commencement of the trial.
This development marks a significant step in the legal proceedings against the Chinese nationals and their company. The court’s decision to grant bail reflects the principle of presumption of innocence until proven guilty. As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen how the evidence will be presented and evaluated, shedding light on the alleged illegal mining activities and the extent of the defendants’ involvement. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have implications for the enforcement of mining regulations and the protection of Nigeria’s natural resources.
