Niger Mining Deaths: NSCDC Detains Commandant, 23 Officers for Investigation

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has detained 24 personnel in connection with the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State. Among those paraded at the Corps Headquarters in Abuja was the suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye, alongside 23 other officers and personnel. NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, said the number under investigation had risen from the initially reported 21 after three additional personnel were identified and suspended. According to the Corps, all personnel linked to the incident have been in protective custody at the National Headquarters since September 17, where they are undergoing interrogation and administrative disciplinary proceedings ahead of further investigations by the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other panels.

Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi said the investigation would be conducted in line with due process, transparency and accountability, stressing that anyone found culpable would face internal disciplinary action and prosecution under the law. The Corps also ordered its flag to be flown at half-mast across all commands and formations for three days from September 20 as a mark of mourning and institutional remorse. NSCDC said the inclusion of two senior officers, DCC Ajayi Philips and DCC John Agrahau Chagwa, was linked to alleged lack of supervision in their departments. The 37 detainees died days after being arrested during anti-illegal mining operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16. The NSCDC had initially linked the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, while stating that medical examinations would determine the actual cause. The Corps said it would continue to update Nigerians on the outcome of the investigation and reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, professionalism and accountability.

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