NSCDC Opens Probe Into Deaths of Illegal Mining Suspects in Niger Custody

NSCDC Opens Probe Into Deaths of Illegal Mining Suspects in Niger Custody

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

The development followed the death of some of the suspects who were arrested during coordinated operations carried out by the Niger State Command around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto axis on September 15 and 16, 2026.

According to the NSCDC, the operation was part of intensified efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities and protect the country's mineral resources. The operation reportedly resulted in the arrest of scores of suspected illegal miners and the recovery of various exhibits.

The deaths were discovered in the early hours of September 17, prompting concerns over what happened to the suspects after their arrest and during their period in custody. The Niger State Command initially described the deaths as occurring amid a suspected outbreak of disease, but stressed that the actual cause had not been established.

In response to the incident, NSCDC Commandant-General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, directed the immediate constitution of a high-powered investigative team led by the Deputy Commandant-General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation.

The team is expected to examine several aspects of the incident, including the physical condition of the suspects when they were arrested, the period they spent in custody, the conditions under which they were detained, the medical attention available to them and other circumstances that may have contributed to the deaths.

The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, where medical examinations are expected to establish the actual cause of death. The Corps said it is also working with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies as part of efforts to manage the situation and address possible public-health concerns.

The NSCDC has cautioned against premature conclusions regarding the cause of the deaths, stating that reports linking the incident to any particular disease remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation. The Corps said it would therefore await the outcome of the examination before making further conclusions.

The Commandant-General also directed that the health and welfare of other persons still in custody should receive priority, while measures are put in place to protect personnel who may have come into contact with the affected detainees.

The incident has also attracted a separate investigation by the Niger State Police Command. The police said the Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Minna to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The police also appealed to relatives and members of the public with credible information to assist the investigation.

Meanwhile, reports from some media organisations have given different figures for the number of people who died, with figures including 33 and 37 being reported. However, the NSCDC's national statement did not provide a definitive death toll, making it appropriate to avoid presenting an unconfirmed figure as established fact pending official clarification.

The NSCDC expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated.

The Corps also reaffirmed that while it would continue its enforcement against illegal mining and the protection of Nigeria's natural resources, it remains committed to respecting the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of persons in its custody.

The public has been urged to remain calm while the medical and investigative processes continue, with the Corps promising to provide further information as verified facts emerge.