IGP Disu visits Niger over deaths of 37 miners in NSCDC custody, pledges thorough investigation

Crime Diary, News

MINNA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Friday visited Niger State following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The IGP paid a condolence visit to the state on September 18, 2026, amid national concern over the deaths of the suspects, who were reportedly arrested over alleged illegal mining activities.

On arrival, Disu was received by the Niger State Governor, Muhammad Umar Bago, alongside other dignitaries and heads of security agencies in the state.

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According to a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the IGP described the incident as a tragedy requiring urgent action and assured the governor and residents that the police would leave no stone unturned in establishing the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Disu called for close cooperation with the NSCDC leadership in the state and the committee constituted by the state government to investigate the incident.

He said deaths in lawful custody constituted a grave matter, particularly as the circumstances surrounding the deaths had yet to be established.

Governor Bago thanked the IGP for the prompt intervention and condolence visit, saying the deceased, who were arrested a day earlier over suspected illegal mining, were found dead while in NSCDC custody.

The governor said the incident had caused serious unrest in the state and that necessary measures were being taken to ensure a thorough investigation.

He said forensic examinations and autopsies were expected to assist in determining the cause of death, while pledging the full support of the Niger State Government to relevant security agencies.

The IGP appealed to residents, particularly the families of the deceased, to remain calm and law-abiding, warning that violence could further complicate the situation.

He assured them that the investigation would be conducted in accordance with the rule of law, due process, transparency and respect for human rights.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting lives and property, and safeguarding the rights and safety of people in lawful custody.

The Force said it would continue to collaborate with relevant authorities in the investigation.

Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had ordered a full and transparent investigation into the deaths.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, also called for urgent answers on the circumstances surrounding the deaths, saying the deceased remained entitled to humane treatment while in custody.