Mediaplusng.com reports that the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have sealed off an illegal quarry site operating in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, leading to the arrest of 13 suspects. The individuals are now facing prosecution, with formal arraignment expected in the coming days.
The operation forms part of Nigeria’s broader crackdown on illegal mining aimed at protecting critical national assets, safeguarding the environment, and restoring order to the mining sector. According to the Mining Marshals Commander, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Attah John Onoja, the suspects were allegedly working for a company that had unlawfully occupied and exploited a quarry lease belonging to another licensed operator for more than seven months.
> “This operation underscores our zero-tolerance stance on illegal activities in the Nigerian mining sector,” Onoja stated. “We will not allow anyone to bypass the law or rob legitimate operators of their rights.”
Mediaplusng.com reports that the Mining Marshals, a specialist NSCDC unit, was established to tackle unlicensed mining, enforce compliance with regulations, and curb the loss of government revenue. The unit operates under the strategic direction of NSCDC Commandant General Prof Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, whose leadership has prioritised clamping down on illegalities affecting national security and economic growth.
The Kuje quarry site, authorities said, lacked proper documentation, safety measures, and environmental safeguards — posing both environmental and public safety risks. ACC Onoja warned all operators to adhere strictly to mining and environmental laws or risk arrest and prosecution.
The NSCDC has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening enforcement, promoting transparency, and ensuring accountability in Nigeria’s mining industry as part of the national push for economic diversification and enhanced internal security.
