Suspects Arrested During Anti-Illegal Mining Operations
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State has reported the deaths of some suspected illegal miners who were being held in its custody, following what it described as a disease outbreak in the cell.
In a statement signed by the Niger State Commandant, Comdt. Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the corps said the suspects were arrested during operations conducted on September 15 and 16, 2026, and were found dead on September 17.
The NSCDC said the operations were part of renewed efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the state and resulted in the arrest of several suspected miners and the recovery of exhibits.
Cause of Death Yet to Be Established
According to the statement, the bodies of the deceased suspects have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for further medical examination to determine the actual cause of death.
The corps said it was working with other security agencies and relevant authorities to establish what happened.
Although the statement linked the deaths to a disease outbreak in the cell, it did not identify the disease or provide details about the number of people who died.
NSCDC Appeals for Calm
The command appealed to members of the public and the families of the deceased to remain calm and avoid actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order while investigations continue.
It said the corps remained committed to respecting human rights and international human rights charters while carrying out its mandate to protect lives, property and critical national assets and infrastructure.
“May the souls of the deceased rest in peace,” the statement added.
Illegal Mining and Security Operations
The Niger State operation comes amid wider security concerns involving illegal activities and law-enforcement operations across the country. The Bureau Journal has reported on a security operation in Kogi that led to the interception of an arms cache and the arrest of suspected terrorists in Ajaokuta.
Other coverage includes a Kogi Assembly bill addressing terrorists and criminals entering the state, an explainer on the state police bill and the Senate’s passage of the state police bill for constitutional amendment.
The NSCDC said investigations into the deaths were ongoing, with further medical examination expected to help establish the cause.
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