Investigations, criminal prosecution still ongoing in Stone Rockers quarry– NSCDC Mining Marshals

The Nigerian government has closed the Stone Rockers quarry in Abuja due to its involvement in a criminal investigation, according to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals. The quarry, located in the mineral title area of Lord’s Career Ventures Nigeria Limited, is at the center of an ongoing criminal case before the Federal High Court.

The quarry's director, Mr. Kolawole Olaiya, and the company itself are currently standing trial for alleged illegal mining activities. The NSCDC clarified that the site cannot be reopened until the case is resolved, and the company's request to reopen the quarry has been denied. The Marshals stated that the prosecution followed extensive investigations after receiving petitions from Stone Rockers over a period of more than a year, which were later referred to them by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Ministry of Interior.

Evidence supporting the prosecution includes correspondence allegedly written by a defense team member and the location of the dispute being within the licensed mining area of Lord’s Career Ventures. The NSCDC also criticized the defendants for attempting to seek administrative intervention while their criminal and civil proceedings are ongoing.

Despite the company's claims and public pressure, the Mining Marshals affirmed their commitment to enforcing the law against illegal mining activities and warned against actions that could undermine ongoing cases.