The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has ordered a thorough investigation into the deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.
The suspects were apprehended on Sept. 15 and 16 in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis as part of operations to curb illegal mining and protect the country’s natural resources. Following the deaths, NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi directed the immediate constitution of a high-powered investigative team to establish what happened.
The team, headed by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation, will examine the suspects’ condition at the time of arrest, their period in custody, detention conditions, medical attention provided and other factors that may have contributed to the deaths. The remains have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination to determine the actual cause of death.
The NSCDC cautioned against speculation, stressing that reports linking the deaths to any specific disease had not been medically established and remained subject to medical and laboratory confirmation. The Corps said it was also working with health authorities and other security agencies on appropriate medical and public-health measures.
Audi directed that the health and welfare of all persons in NSCDC custody be given priority and that measures be taken to protect personnel who may have come into contact with the affected suspects. The Corps expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that further updates would be issued after verified findings become available.
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