Suspected Illegal miners die as disease breaks out in NSCDC custody

In Niger State, Nigeria, illegal miners have met with tragic deaths while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). According to a statement from the Niger State Commandant, Comdt. Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, the suspects were arrested between September 15th and 16th, 2026, but their deaths were reported on September 17th following a disease outbreak in their cell.

The bodies of the deceased suspects have since been turned over to the General Hospital in Minna for further medical examination to determine the exact cause of their deaths.

The NSCDC's Niger State Command conducted a "burst operation" on September 15th and 16th, 2026, aiming to eliminate illegal mining activities in the state. As a result of this operation, numerous suspected illegal miners were apprehended, and various exhibits were recovered. However, the operation also led to the unfortunate incident where several miners died due to a disease outbreak in the NSCDC cell.

In response to the incident, the NSCDC has called for calm, emphasizing that they are working closely with other security agencies to establish the cause of the deaths. The command has appealed to the public and the families of the deceased to refrain from any actions that might escalate the situation and disrupt law and order. The NSCDC Niger State Command reaffirms its commitment to upholding human rights and adhering to international human rights charters, while remaining steadfast in its mandate to protect lives and property, as well as safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure. The statement concludes by wishing the souls of the deceased a peaceful repose.