Nigeria launches probe as 37 suspected illegal miners die in detention

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has launched an investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.

According to PUNCH, the suspects were arrested during coordinated operations in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis on September 15 and 16 as part of a crackdown on illegal mining.

Reports indicated that at least 33 detainees were feared dead at an NSCDC facility in Minna. State Commandant Suberu Aniviye initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak.

However, NSCDC headquarters said the cause had not been established, stressing that any disease-related explanation remained subject to medical and laboratory confirmation.

Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi ordered a high-powered investigative team to examine the incident.

The inquiry will investigate the detainees’ condition when arrested, their time in custody, detention conditions, medical care and circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Audi also directed officials to prioritise the health and welfare of people still in custody and protect personnel who had contact with affected detainees. The corps expressed condolences to the victims’ families and promised a thorough investigation.