The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has ordered a high-level investigation into the deaths of 33 suspected illegal miners who reportedly died after being arrested during an enforcement operation in Niger State.
The detainees were reportedly arrested during a joint operation targeting illegal mining activities around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state.
According to the Niger State Command of the NSCDC, the suspects were apprehended on September 15 and 16, 2026, before being taken to an NSCDC facility in Minna.
The deaths were discovered in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026.
Following the development, the remains of the deceased were evacuated to the General Hospital, Minna, where medical examinations are expected to establish the actual cause of death.
In a statement issued by the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, warned against attributing the deaths to any particular disease before the completion of medical and laboratory examinations.
Audi subsequently directed the immediate constitution of a high-powered investigative team to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigative panel, headed by the Deputy Commandant General responsible for Intelligence and Investigation, has been mandated to establish what happened before and after the suspects were taken into custody.
Investigation To Cover Arrest And Detention Conditions
According to the NSCDC, investigators are expected to examine several aspects of the incident, including the physical condition of the detainees at the time of their arrest, the length of time they spent in custody and the conditions under which they were detained.
The team will also examine the medical attention provided to the suspects, their welfare while in custody and any other circumstances that could have contributed to the reported deaths.
The Corps said it was collaborating with relevant health authorities and other security agencies to implement appropriate medical and public-health measures in response to the incident.
It also directed that the health and welfare of suspects who remain in custody should be given immediate priority.
The NSCDC added that personnel who may have had contact with the affected detainees would also be protected as part of the necessary public-health measures.
The Corps stressed that the incident would be addressed strictly on the basis of verified medical evidence and investigative findings, rather than speculation.
NSCDC Reaffirms Illegal Mining Enforcement
Despite the incident, the NSCDC said its campaign against illegal mining activities across the country would continue.
However, the Corps emphasised that enforcement operations must be carried out in accordance with the law and alongside respect for the dignity and fundamental rights of persons placed in custody.
The Commandant General expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the circumstances surrounding the deaths would be thoroughly investigated.
He also appealed to members of the public to remain calm while the medical and investigative processes are ongoing.
The NSCDC said further information would be made available as verified facts emerge from the investigation and medical examinations.
