Niger Police probe deaths of suspected illegal miners in NSCDC custody
The Niger State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the deaths of several individuals suspected of illegal mining. Reports indicate that the deceased were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) when they died.
The investigation follows an incident that occurred in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026. According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer Wasiu Abiodun, the individuals were found dead while being held at the NSCDC’s Niger State Command facility.
Commissioner of Police Adamu Abdullahi Elleman has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, who oversees the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna, to lead the investigation and clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The police command is encouraging family members, relatives, and members of the public who possess credible information related to the case to come forward and assist the SCID in their efforts.
Commissioner Elleman has called for calm among the community while urging residents, relatives, and acquaintances of the deceased to remain law-abiding and cooperate with the investigation. He assured the public of the command’s commitment to conducting a thorough inquiry into the incident to determine its cause.
Additionally, Elleman reaffirmed the commitment of the police command to uphold human rights and ensure accountability among law enforcement personnel in the performance of their duties.
