Tragedy struck in Niger State as over 33 suspected illegal miners have reportedly died while in detention at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, facility in Minna.
The victims were among scores of suspects arrested during a major crackdown on illegal mining activities in the state. The deaths were discovered in the early hours of Thursday, September 17, 2026.
According to the Niger State Command of the NSCDC, the suspects were apprehended during coordinated “burst operations” conducted on September 15 and 16 at M.I. Wushishi / Lukoto Village. The operation was part of renewed efforts to clamp down on illegal mining in the state and led to multiple arrests and recovery of exhibits.
In a twist, the NSCDC disclosed that several detainees were found dead on Thursday morning, allegedly due to a suspected disease outbreak in custody.
The bodies of the deceased have been moved to the General Hospital, Minna, where an autopsy and medical examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
Preliminary reports suggest the fatalities may be linked to a suspected diphtheria outbreak. According to THISDAY, six other detained miners have been hospitalized after exhibiting symptoms associated with the disease. However, the NSCDC is yet to officially confirm diphtheria as the cause.
Reacting to the incident, the Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC, Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, said the Corps is collaborating with sister security agencies to manage the situation.
Aniviye appealed to families of the deceased and the general public to remain calm and avoid any act that could trigger a breakdown of law and order.
The Command also extended condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human rights and international best practices in the discharge of its duties.
Investigations are ongoing, with medical results expected to shed more light on the circumstances behind the mass deaths.
