The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 15 people, including 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, over alleged illegal lithium processing activities at four facilities in Ogere, Ogun State.

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

The EFCC announced the operation on Monday, October 26, saying its operatives uncovered the facilities during a crackdown on suspected unauthorised lithium processing activities.

According to the commission, items recovered during the operation included bags of lithium rocks, 18 mobile devices, four computer laptops, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.

The agency did not disclose the identities of the suspects or the quantity of lithium recovered.

It also did not provide further details about the ownership of the facilities or explain the specific licensing and regulatory violations under investigation.

The EFCC said investigations were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged in court after the conclusion of inquiries.

The commission has yet to announce formal charges against the 15 suspects.

Their arrest does not establish guilt, and the allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings.

Lithium is an important mineral used in rechargeable batteries for mobile phones, electric vehicles and energy-storage systems.

Growing global demand for battery materials has increased interest in lithium resources across several countries, including Nigeria.

The latest arrests highlight the enforcement challenges surrounding mineral extraction and processing, as authorities seek to ensure that operators comply with applicable laws and regulations.

The EFCC has not yet disclosed when the suspects are expected to appear in court.