The Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Comdt. Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, disclosed this in a statement, saying the victims were arrested during operations conducted on September 15 and 16, 2026.
According to the statement, the suspects were found dead on September 17 following what the corps described as a disease outbreak in the cell where they were being held.
The command said the bodies of the deceased had been deposited at the General Hospital, Minna, for further medical examination to determine the actual cause of death.
The statement said the arrests were made during a “burst operation” aimed at tackling illegal mining activities across the state.
“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, in its renewed efforts to rid the state of illegal mining activities, conducted a ‘burst operation’ on 15th and 16th September, 2026, leading to the arrest of suspected illegal miners and the recovery of exhibits,” it said.
The corps added that the operation resulted in the arrest of scores of suspected illegal miners and the recovery of various exhibits.
While confirming the deaths, the NSCDC appealed to the public and relatives of the deceased to remain calm as investigations continued.
The command said it was working with sister security agencies and relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
“The Command appeals to the general public and the families of the deceased to remain calm and desist from any actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order,” the statement said.
The NSCDC further reaffirmed its commitment to human rights and said it would continue to carry out its statutory responsibilities, including the protection of lives and property and critical national assets and infrastructure.
The actual cause of the deaths has not yet been established pending the outcome of the medical examination.
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