37 Illegal Mining Suspects Die in NSCDC Custody in Niger State

Thirty-seven people arrested for suspected illegal mining in Niger State have died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), raising concerns over the conditions under which the detainees were held.

The victims were among suspects arrested during raids conducted on September 15 and 16 around the M.I. Wushishi/Lukoto axis of the state.

Initial reports from the NSCDC suggested that the deaths could be linked to a possible outbreak of diphtheria. However, an intelligence report has reportedly pointed to overcrowding and inadequate ventilation as possible factors in the deaths.

Survivors are said to have alleged that about 65 detainees were held in a single poorly ventilated cell following the arrests. The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain subject to investigation.

Following the incident, NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, ordered a high-powered investigation led by the Deputy Commandant-General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation.

The corps has also ordered post-mortem examinations to determine the cause of death. Reports indicate that an NSCDC commander has been detained in connection with the incident as investigations continue.

The Niger State Government has declared three days of mourning over the deaths.

Families of the deceased have called for an independent investigation and autopsy, questioning the initial explanation that the deaths were caused by disease.

Authorities are expected to establish the circumstances that led to the deaths, including the condition of the detention facility, the medical status of the detainees and whether proper procedures were followed during their detention.