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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed the death of some suspected illegal miners who were arrested during enforcement operations conducted in parts of Niger State on September 15 and 16, 2026.
The suspects were arrested during a coordinated operation by the Niger State Command in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and protect the nation’s natural resources.
Following the development, the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, OFR, mni, has directed the constitution of a high-powered investigative team, led by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation, to immediately look into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The development was revealed in a press statement issued on Thursday and signed by the NSCDC Assistant Commandant of Corps
and National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi.
“The team has been mandated to undertake a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to the deaths, including the condition of the suspects upon arrest, their period in custody, the conditions of detention, medical attention provided, and other relevant circumstances surrounding 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 statement said.
It added, “The Corps is also working with the relevant health authorities and sister security agencies to ensure that appropriate medical and public-health measures are taken.
“The NSCDC wishes to clarify that reports attributing the deaths to any specific disease remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation. The Corps will therefore refrain from speculation until the outcome of the medical examination is established.
“The Commandant General has further directed that the health and welfare of all persons currently in custody be given utmost priority, while necessary measures are taken to protect personnel who may have had contact with the affected persons.
“The Corps extends its condolences to the families of the deceased and assures them that the circumstances surrounding the incident will be thoroughly investigated and appropriately addressed based on established facts.
“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.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and allow the investigative and medical processes to take their course. The Corps will provide further updates as verified information becomes available.”
