The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, today, 18th September 2026, paid a condolence visit to Niger State following the death of thirty-seven (37) miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the early hours of the day. The suspects were reportedly arrested over alleged illegal mining activities.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu who made this known in a press release, on arrival, the Inspector-General was received by the Executive Governor of Niger State, His Excellency, Muhammad Umar Bago, alongside other dignitaries and Heads of Security Agencies in the State.
Commiserating with the Government and people of Niger State, IGP Disu described the incident as a tragedy that demands urgent action. He assured the Governor and the people of Niger State that the Nigeria Police Force will leave no stone unturned in unravelling the cause of the incident.
The IGP called for close cooperation with the leadership of the NSCDC in the State and with the committee constituted by the State Government to investigate the circumstances that led to the loss of lives. He stressed that death in lawful custody is a grave matter that cannot be treated lightly, particularly as the circumstances surrounding these deaths are yet to be explained.
In his remarks, Governor Bago thanked the Inspector-General for his prompt intervention and condolence visit. He stated that the deceased, who were arrested a day earlier over suspected illegal mining, were unfortunately found dead in NSCDC custody. He added that the incident had caused serious unrest in the State, and that all necessary measures were being put in place to ensure a seamless investigation, with forensic examinations and autopsies expected to assist in determining the cause of death. He pledged the full support of the Niger State Government to the relevant security agencies.
The Inspector-General appealed to residents, especially the families of the deceased, to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that violence would only compound the situation. He assured them that the investigation would be conducted in strict adherence to the rule of law, due process, transparency, and respect for human rights, without any form of compromise.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting the lives and property of all persons in Nigeria, and safeguarding the rights and safety of all persons in lawful custody. The Force will continue to collaborate with relevant authorities in fulfilment of this mandate.
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