Mining marshals seal ‘illegal quarry’ in Abuja, arrest 13 suspects

The mining marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have sealed an “unauthorised” quarry site in the Kuje area council of the federal capital territory (FCT).

In a statement on Thursday, Attah Onoja, assistant commandant of corps and head of the marshals, said 13 individuals linked to the “illegal operation” were taken into custody and have been charged to court.

Onoja said the suspects were operating on a site that had been unlawfully taken over from a licensed mining firm.

He said the quarry had been exploited for more than seven months without legal authorisation.

“This operation is part of our broader resolve to enforce mining regulations and ensure that only duly licensed operators are allowed to function,” Onoja said.

“We will not permit anyone to undermine lawful businesses or exploit the system with impunity.”

He said the Kuje operation followed months of surveillance, with authorities confirming the site lacked the required approvals and safety measures.

“The era of operating in the shadows is over. We will pursue offenders wherever they are and ensure they are brought to justice,” he said.

The mining marshals, a specialised NSCDC unit, was set up to curb illegal mining and protect strategic national assets.

The growing menace of illegal mining has led to significant revenue losses, environmental damage, and security threats.

Last month, Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, said the federal government will not back down from its efforts to curb illegal mining despite growing blackmail and smear campaigns.

Alake said resistance is mounting from individuals who have long benefitted from unregulated mining activities and are threatened by the government’s reforms.