37 Miners Die in NSCDC Custody, Survivor Alleges Exposure to Unknown Substance
By Donblaze Media
At least 37 suspected illegal miners have died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Niger State, following their arrest over alleged illegal mining activities.
The deaths have sparked protests, public concern and demands for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The deceased were reportedly among 67 persons arrested by NSCDC operatives on September 15.
A survivor alleged that the detainees developed breathing difficulties after an unidentified substance was allegedly sprayed inside their cell.
According to the survivor, the detainees began coughing and sneezing shortly after the substance was sprayed, while some later developed severe health complications.
The allegation has not been independently verified, as authorities continue investigations into the deaths.
Governor orders probe
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, described the incident as unfortunate and ordered a thorough investigation.
Bago said preliminary findings suggested that some of the victims may have suffered suffocation and dehydration.
He added that forensic examinations of some bodies had revealed features requiring further investigation, including reports of foam and blood around the mouths of some victims and peeling of the skin.
The governor said possible exposure to poisonous substances, including methane or lead, could not be established until investigations and forensic examinations are completed.
He also announced a ban on mining activities in the affected area and directed miners to vacate the sites.
Families demand justice
The deaths have left families demanding answers and accountability.
One of the bereaved relatives, Musa Aliyu, said he lost two of his children, Ibrahim, 17, and Abubakar, 12, in the incident.
The development also triggered protests by women at the Minna General Hospital, where some of the bodies were reportedly taken.
FG orders investigation
Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, visited Niger State alongside security officials and described the incident as unfortunate.
President Bola Tinubu has directed relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the deaths.
The probe is expected to establish how the detainees were arrested, the conditions under which they were held, the number of persons in custody, the medical attention provided and the circumstances that led to their deaths.
The Federal Government has stressed that allegations of illegal mining do not remove the obligation of authorities to protect the lives and rights of persons in government custody.
Authorities have pledged to determine the immediate and remote causes of the deaths and establish responsibility if wrongdoing is established.
