Niger Miners’ Deaths: Police Take Over Scene

Author: Gist Correspondent

The Niger State Police Command has taken over the scene where 37 suspected illegal miners died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), beginning an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The probe followed a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to establish the circumstances of the incident and ensure accountability, transparency and respect for the constitutional rights of the deceased.

The Commissioner of Police in Niger State, CP Adamu Elleman, directed Operation Flush patrol teams to secure and cordon off the scene, while the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Minna, commenced preliminary forensic investigations.

The command said all relevant facts surrounding the deaths would be thoroughly examined as part of efforts to establish what happened and determine any responsibility arising from the incident.

Elleman assured the families of the deceased and members of the public that the investigation would be conducted professionally and diligently in accordance with the law and due process.

He appealed for calm, patience and cooperation as the inquiry continues, adding that findings from the investigation would be appropriately handled in line with extant laws.

The development comes after the NSCDC on Sunday paraded its suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Suberu Aniviye, and other officers linked to the deaths.

The officers were paraded at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, where the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, briefed journalists on its preliminary findings.