Nigerian security agency probes deaths of detained mining suspects

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has ordered an investigation after suspected illegal miners were found dead in its custody in Niger State, with officials pointing to a suspected disease outbreak as the likely cause. The incident occurred following arrests made during enforcement operations on September 15 and 16, 2026. The NSCDC confirmed the deaths in a statement on Thursday, September 17, 2026. The suspects were detained after a coordinated operation by the Niger State Command in the M.I. Wushishi-Lukoto axis, part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and protect national resources. Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi directed the constitution of a high-powered investigative team, led by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Intelligence and Investigation. The team has been mandated to conduct a comprehensive probe into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, including the condition of the suspects upon arrest, their period in custody, detention conditions, and any medical attention provided. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for medical examination to determine the actual cause of death.