The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has constituted a high-powered investigative team to probe the deaths of some suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.
The suspects were arrested during a coordinated operation conducted by the Niger State Command on September 15 and 16, 2026, in the M.I.
Wushishi/Lukoto axis as part of efforts to curb illegal mining activities and protect the nation’s natural resources.
In a statement signed by the NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, directed the immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
According to the statement, the investigative team is headed by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation.
The team is expected to establish the condition of the suspects at the time of their arrest, their period in custody, detention conditions, medical attention provided and other circumstances that may have contributed to their deaths.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination to determine the actual cause of death.
The NSCDC said it was also collaborating with relevant health authorities and sister security agencies to ensure that necessary medical and public-health measures were implemented.
The Corps cautioned against speculation over reports attributing the deaths to a particular disease, stressing that such claims remained subject to medical and laboratory confirmation.
It said it would await the outcome of the medical examination before making further conclusions on the cause of the deaths.
Audi also directed that the health and welfare of all persons currently in NSCDC custody be given utmost priority, while measures were being taken to protect personnel who may have had contact with the affected persons.
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 Nigeria’s 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 take their course, promising to provide further updates as verified information becomes available.