Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has visited Niger State following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), pledging a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Disu met with Niger State Governor Umaru Bago in Minna, where he expressed condolences to the state government and families affected by the deaths. He said the Nigeria Police Force would work with the NSCDC, the state government and other relevant authorities to establish what happened.
“The Nigeria Police Force will leave no stone unturned in unravelling the cause of the incident,” Disu said, stressing that deaths occurring in custody were a serious matter requiring police investigation.
The police have also secured the scene where the detainees were held to preserve evidence and prevent any interference with the investigation. Disu said investigators would ensure that nothing was removed or introduced at the scene before the process is concluded.
The 37 victims were among suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16. The NSCDC initially said the deaths may have been linked to a suspected disease outbreak, but the exact cause has not been established. Medical, forensic examinations and autopsies are ongoing.
The incident has generated public concern and protests in Minna, prompting authorities to impose a curfew. The Federal Government has separately inaugurated a 10-member independent committee to investigate the deaths and determine whether any individuals or institutions bear responsibility.
The investigation is significant because the deaths occurred while the victims were in government custody, making transparency and accountability central to determining what happened. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and allow investigators to establish the facts.
The incident has also renewed attention on illegal mining enforcement in Niger State and the need for proper treatment and safeguards for people held in custody.
