Probe begins as 40 miners die in NSCDC detention

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has initiated an investigation into the deaths of around 40 suspected illegal miners detained by the NSCDC in Niger State. The suspects were apprehended during enforcement operations in the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto area on September 15 and 16, 2026. Reports indicated that 33 individuals feared dead after being held at an NSCDC facility in Minna, with their cause of death initially attributed to a suspected outbreak of disease.

However, the NSCDC National Headquarters has stated that the cause remains unconfirmed, pending medical and laboratory confirmation. The NSCDC's National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, announced that a high-powered investigative team, led by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation, has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive inquiry.

The investigation will examine factors such as the suspects' condition upon arrest, the duration of their detention, the detention conditions, medical care provided, and other relevant circumstances. The Corps has also pledged condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that the investigation will be based on established facts.