IGP Disu Orders Probe Into Deaths Of 37 Suspected Illegal Miners In NSCDC Custody

Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has ordered a thorough and transparent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

Disu gave the assurance on Friday when he visited Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago at the Government House in Minna to commiserate with the state government and families of the deceased.

The IGP said deaths in custody fall within the purview of the Nigeria Police Force, regardless of where such incidents occur, adding that police personnel had already been deployed to maintain law and order while the investigation continues.

The development comes amid protests and rising tension in Minna over the deaths. The Niger State Government subsequently imposed a 24-hour curfew on Minna, effective immediately after Friday’s Juma’at prayers, following unrest and reported attacks on public and private property. Residents were directed to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement, while security agencies were ordered to enforce the restriction.

The deaths have triggered investigations by state and federal authorities, with the exact cause yet to be conclusively established. The Niger State Government has constituted a committee of inquiry, while the NSCDC commandant in the state has been suspended pending investigation.

Police authorities said the investigation would establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine whether anyone bears responsibility.

The IGP also appealed for calm as security agencies work to prevent further breakdown of law and order in the state.