NSCDC Confirms Deaths of Detained Illegal Miners in Niger, Begins Investigation
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has confirmed that some detained suspects died early Thursday morning following a suspected outbreak of disease.
In a statement issued by the State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the Corps said the deceased were among illegal miners arrested on September 15 and 16, 2026, during raids on illegal mining sites at the MI Wushishi Estate and Lukoto Village in Minna, Niger State.
The Commandant said several exhibits were also recovered during the operations.
According to the statement, the remains of the deceased suspects have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for further medical examination to establish the actual cause of death.
The NSCDC urged members of the public to remain calm, assuring that the Corps, in collaboration with sister security agencies, was taking necessary steps to manage the situation.
The Command also appealed to the families of the deceased to remain calm and refrain from actions capable of causing a breakdown of law and order.
The statement reaffirmed the NSCDC Niger State Command’s commitment to the protection and enforcement of human rights, noting that the Corps subscribes to international human rights charters.
It further reiterated the Corps’ commitment to its statutory responsibilities, including the protection of lives and property, as well as critical national assets and infrastructure.
NSCDC Confirms Deaths of Detained Illegal Miners in Niger, Begins Investigation