FG Opens Independent Probe Into Deaths of 37 Niger Miners

The Federal Government has inaugurated a 10-member independent investigative committee to probe the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

The committee was inaugurated on Tuesday, September 22, by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who said the investigation must uncover what happened and ensure that anyone found responsible faces the law.

The government also warned against any attempt to destroy evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the investigation.

The 37 detainees reportedly died on September 17 after being arrested during operations targeting suspected illegal mining activities in the state.

Earlier reports said the NSCDC suspected a disease outbreak, while survivors alleged that detainees were held in an overcrowded and poorly ventilated cell.

Authorities have said investigations and medical examinations are necessary to establish the actual cause of death.

The Niger State Police Command has also taken over the scene and commenced forensic investigations following a directive from the Inspector-General of Police.

The National Human Rights Commission has called for an independent forensic autopsy and preservation of evidence, while other groups have also demanded a transparent investigation into the deaths.