No fewer than 33 illegal miners have died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The Niger State Commandant, Comdt. Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, said the suspects were arrested during an operation carried out on September 15 and 16, 2026. They were later found dead on September 17 after a disease outbreak in the cell.
The NSCDC said the bodies have been taken to the General Hospital, Minna, for further medical examination to determine the actual cause of death.
In the statement, the corps said, “The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, in its renewed efforts to rid the state of illegal mining activities, conducted a “burst operation” on 15th and 16th September, 2026, leading to the arrest of suspected illegal miners and the recovery of exhibits.
“The operation yielded significant results, with scores of suspected illegal miners arrested and various exhibits recovered.”
The corps urged the public and families of the deceased to remain calm as security agencies and relevant authorities investigate the deaths.
It added, “While the Corps, in synergy with sister security agencies, is on top of the situation, the Command appeals to the general public and the families of the deceased to remain calm and desist from any actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Niger State Command, remains fully committed to the enforcement of human rights and subscribes to international human rights charters, while remaining steadfast in the enforcement of its core mandates, including the protection of lives and property, as well as critical national assets and infrastructure, for the benefit of the Commonwealth.
“May the souls of the deceased rest in peace.”
