The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested and detained 24 personnel in connection with the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Niger State.
Among those detained is the suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Subaru Siyaka Aniviye, alongside 23 other officers and personnel who were paraded at the NSCDC headquarters in Abuja.
The NSCDC also ordered its flag to be flown at half-mast across all commands and formations for three days in honour of the deceased.
NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, said the investigation would be conducted with due process, transparency and accountability. He added that any personnel found culpable would face disciplinary measures and possible prosecution.
The Corps Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, said the number of personnel detained had risen from the initial 21 to 24 after three additional officers were identified and suspended.
According to him, all personnel linked to the incident have been in protective custody at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja since September 17, 2026, where they are undergoing interrogation and administrative disciplinary proceedings.
The 37 suspected illegal miners reportedly died days after they were arrested during anti-illegal mining operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State on September 15 and 16.
The NSCDC initially attributed the deaths to a suspected disease outbreak, saying medical examinations would determine the actual cause of death.
The Corps said the investigation would also make the detained personnel available to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigative panels for further action.
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