EFCC Busts Four Illegal Lithium Plants in Ogun, Arrests 14 Chinese Nationals

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian during raids on four suspected illegal lithium-processing plants in Ogere, Ogun State.

The suspects were arrested on Friday, October 23, 2026, by operatives of the commission’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 following intelligence gathering and surveillance.

The EFCC announced the arrests on Monday, October 26, saying the operation targeted four facilities allegedly involved in illegal lithium-processing activities.

Items recovered during the operation included 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 did not disclose the identities of the suspects or the quantity of lithium recovered. It also did not provide specific details of the alleged licensing or regulatory violations involving the facilities.

The EFCC said the suspects would be charged to court after investigations had been concluded.

The arrests come amid increased attention on Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, as the government seeks to develop mineral resources and strengthen regulation of mining and processing activities.

Lithium is a key mineral used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, mobile phones, laptops and energy-storage systems. Growing demand for battery materials has increased interest in lithium deposits and processing opportunities in Nigeria.

However, authorities have repeatedly raised concerns about unauthorised mineral operations and the need to ensure that mineral resources are exploited in accordance with applicable laws.

The latest case remains under investigation, and the suspects have not been convicted of any offence.