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.
In a statement signed by Assistant Commandant of Corps and National Public Relations Officer, NSCDC Babawale Afolabi, 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, around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis.
The arrests formed part of ongoing efforts by the NSCDC to tackle illegal mining and protect Nigeria’s natural resources.
Following the deaths, the Commandant General of the Corps, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, OFR, mni, directed the immediate constitution of an investigative team headed by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation.
The team is expected to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, including the condition of the suspects at the time of arrest, the duration of their detention, the conditions in which they were held, medical attention provided to them and other factors that may have contributed to the incident.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination and determination of the actual cause of death.
The NSCDC said it is also working with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies to ensure that appropriate medical and public-health measures are implemented.
The Corps cautioned against premature conclusions over the cause of the deaths, stressing that reports linking the incident to any particular disease had not been medically or scientifically confirmed.
According to the NSCDC, it will refrain from speculation pending the outcome of medical and laboratory examinations.
The Commandant General has also directed that the health and welfare of all persons currently in NSCDC custody be accorded the highest priority, while measures are being implemented to protect personnel who may have come into contact with the affected detainees.
The Corps expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated and appropriately addressed based on established facts.
While reaffirming its commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting critical national assets, the NSCDC said it remained committed to upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of persons in its custody.
The Corps appealed to members of the public to remain calm and allow the investigative and medical processes to run their course, promising to release further information as verified facts emerge.
