NSCDC To Probe Death Of Suspected Illegal Miners In Niger

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has constituted a high-powered investigative team to probe the deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.

The Corps confirmed that some of the suspects died after they were arrested during coordinated operations conducted by the Niger State Command on September 15 and 16, 2026.

According to a statement by the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, on Thursday, September 17, the suspects were arrested in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis as part of efforts to tackle illegal mining and protect the country’s natural resources.

The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, directed the immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The investigative team, led by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation, is expected to examine the condition of the suspects when they were arrested, their period in custody, the detention conditions, and the medical attention provided.

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The statement said the remains of the deceased had been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination and to determine the actual cause of death.

The NSCDC also said it was working with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies to ensure appropriate medical and public-health measures are taken.

The Corps cautioned against attributing the deaths to any specific disease without medical evidence.

“The Corps wishes to clarify that reports attributing the deaths to any specific disease remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation,” the statement said.

It added that the NSCDC would “refrain from speculation until the outcome of the medical examination is established.”

The Commandant General also directed that the health and welfare of all persons currently in custody be given “utmost priority”, while measures are being taken to protect personnel who may have had contact with the affected persons.

The Corps expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the circumstances surrounding the deaths would be thoroughly investigated.

“While the NSCDC remains resolute in its mandate to combat illegal mining and protect Nigeria’s critical national assets, the Corps also remains committed to upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of every person in its custody,” the statement said.

The NSCDC urged members of the public to remain calm and allow the investigative and medical processes to take their course, promising to provide further updates as verified information becomes available.