By Usman Gambo
Minna, Niger State — September 18, 2026
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the reported deaths of suspected illegal miners arrested during enforcement operations in Niger State.
The probe follows allegations that dozens of detainees were feared dead after being held at an NSCDC facility in Minna, with officials initially suggesting the incident may have been linked to an outbreak of disease—an assertion the NSCDC has since refused to confirm without medical and laboratory verification.
NSCDC arrests suspected illegal miners during coordinated operations
NSCDC enforcement operations were carried out by the Niger State Command along the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis on September 15 and 16, 2026 as part of intensified efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the state.
According to reports, arrests made during the operations later led to fears of mass casualties among the detainees, with claims that no fewer than 33 suspected illegal miners were feared dead after detention at the NSCDC facility in Minna.
Discovery of deaths in early hours; disease suspected
The development was reportedly detected in the early hours of Thursday, prompting immediate internal concerns over the health condition of the detainees.
The Niger State Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, reportedly attributed the suspected deaths to a probable outbreak of disease, a claim now requiring confirmation through medical processes.
NSCDC says cause remains unconfirmed; probe team constituted
The NSCDC National Headquarters said the cause of the deaths had yet to be established, adding that any reports linking the incident to a specific disease must be supported by medical examinations and laboratory confirmation.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, said the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, had directed the immediate constitution of a high-powered investigative team to determine the circumstances behind the deaths.
The statement explained that the team would be led by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation, and would conduct a full review of events from the time suspects were arrested to their time in custody.
What the investigation will examine
Afolabi said the investigative exercise would include an assessment of:
- the condition of the suspects at the point of arrest
- the duration they spent in custody
- the detention conditions
- the medical attention and welfare support provided to detainees
- other relevant circumstances surrounding the incident
He added that the Commandant General also ordered that the health and welfare of all persons currently in custody be prioritised, while protective measures be taken for personnel who may have had contact with the affected detainees.
NSCDC extends condolences, urges no speculation
The NSCDC expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated and addressed based on established facts.
The Corps further clarified that there would be no speculation on the cause of death until the outcome of medical and laboratory checks is concluded.
Afolabi said, in part, that reports attributing the deaths to any specific disease remain subject to medical and laboratory confirmation, stressing that the Corps would refrain from making claims without evidence.
As NSCDC officials investigate the Niger State incident, the organisation has emphasised accountability, patient welfare within custody arrangements, and evidence-based findings. The Corps has also warned against premature conclusions, insisting that any link to a specific disease will only be determined after confirmed medical assessment.
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