Suspected Illegal Miners Die in Custody as NSCDC Launches Probe in Niger

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has launched an investigation into the deaths of some suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in 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, according to the Corps.

In a statement issued on Thursday, NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, ACC Babawale Afolabi, said the operation was part of efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Nigeria’s natural resources.

Reacting to the deaths, NSCDC Commandant General, Prof Ahmed Abubakar Audi, directed the immediate formation of a high-powered investigative team to establish what happened.

The team, headed by the Deputy Commandant General responsible for Intelligence and Investigation, is expected to examine the suspects’ condition at the point of arrest, their time in custody, detention conditions, medical care provided and other circumstances that may have contributed to the deaths.

The remains have since been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination and determination of the actual cause of death.

The NSCDC said it is collaborating with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies as the investigation and necessary medical and public-health measures continue.

The Corps also rejected premature conclusions about the cause of the deaths, saying claims that they were linked to a particular disease had yet to be confirmed through medical and laboratory tests.

According to the statement, the NSCDC would “refrain from speculation until the outcome of the medical examination is established.”

Audi also ordered that the health and welfare of everyone currently in NSCDC custody receive the highest priority, while measures are put in place to protect personnel who may have come into contact with the affected suspects.

The Corps offered condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated and addressed based on the facts established.

The NSCDC maintained that it would continue its campaign against illegal mining and the protection of Nigeria’s critical national assets, while also upholding the dignity, safety and fundamental rights of persons in its custody.

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