Nigeria Deploys Probe Team After Up to 40 Miners Die in NSCDC Custody
Updated
Updated · Punch Newspapers · Sep 18
Nigeria Deploys Probe Team After Up to 40 Miners Die in NSCDC Custody
2 articles · Updated · Punch Newspapers · Sep 18
Summary
Dele Alake on Friday sent a high-powered ministry team to Niger State to investigate the deaths of suspected illegal miners held by the NSCDC in Minna.
Up to 40 detainees were reported dead after arrests during anti-illegal-mining operations on September 15 and 16 in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis, though authorities have not fixed a final toll.
The minister said his team will work with other investigators to establish the facts, while urging a transparent, independent inquiry that can assign accountability and prevent a repeat in detention facilities.
NSCDC has already opened its own investigation, with local officials initially citing a suspected disease outbreak but national headquarters saying the cause of death remains unconfirmed pending medical and laboratory findings.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has declared a mourning period and set up an investigative framework, widening scrutiny of detention conditions and enforcement operations against illegal mining.