A group of 37 illegal miners died while in the custody of Nigeria’s National Security Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State. The deaths occurred during a detention operation following a raid on a mining site near Lt Gen Mohammed Inuwa Wushishi Estate. The NSCDC has set up a committee to investigate the incident, which has sparked public outrage and calls for accountability.
The miners were arrested during enforcement operations conducted between September 15 and 16, 2026. Officials have not yet released details on the cause of the deaths, though some sources suggest the conditions in the detention facility may have contributed. The NSCDC has suspended the commandant of the unit involved, pending the results of the internal inquiry.
Human rights organizations and journalists have criticized the lack of transparency and called for an independent investigation. Some have questioned the effectiveness of government probes, with one official stating that no meaningful action will come from the inquiry. The families of the deceased continue to demand justice and clarity on the circumstances of the deaths.
The incident has intensified scrutiny on the NSCDC’s handling of detainees and raised concerns about the treatment of individuals in custody. As the probe continues, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
