The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the deaths of some suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in parts of Niger State.
The suspects were arrested on September 15 and 16, 2026, during a coordinated operation conducted by the Niger State Command in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis as part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal mining and protect Nigeria’s natural resources.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, ACC Babawale Afolabi, said Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi had directed the immediate constitution of a high-powered investigative team to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The team, headed by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation, has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
According to the Corps, the investigation will examine the condition of the suspects at the time of their arrest, the duration of their custody, detention conditions, medical attention provided to them and other circumstances that may have contributed to their deaths.
The NSCDC said the remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, where medical examinations will be conducted to determine the actual cause of death.
The Corps added that it was working with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies to ensure that appropriate medical and public-health measures were implemented.
The NSCDC also cautioned against premature conclusions regarding the cause of the deaths, particularly reports attributing them to a specific disease.
It stressed that such claims remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation, noting that the Corps would “refrain from speculation until the outcome of the medical examination is established.”
Meanwhile, the Commandant General directed that the health and welfare of all persons currently in NSCDC custody be given the highest priority.
He also ordered appropriate measures to safeguard personnel who may have come into contact with the affected individuals.
The Corps expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, assuring them that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated and that appropriate action would be taken based on established facts.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting Nigeria’s critical national assets, while stressing that enforcement of its mandate must be carried out alongside respect for the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of persons in custody.
