37 Suspected Illegal Miners Die in Nigerian Custody

Sep 18, 2026

58 min

Sep 18, 2026 02:31

37 suspected illegal miners die in custody in Nigeria

## Incident Overview

In a tragic incident in Niger State, Nigeria, 37 individuals suspected of illegal mining died while in custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The deaths occurred early Thursday, prompting an investigation by local authorities.

## Investigation and Reactions

The police have initiated an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. While the NSCDC attributed the fatalities to a disease outbreak, an intelligence report suggests overcrowding and poor ventilation in the detention facility as potential causes. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed sorrow over the incident and announced a three-day mourning period.

## Protests and Unrest

Following the news, protests erupted in Minna, the state capital, where demonstrators damaged property. A video circulating online shows the bodies of young men, mostly teenagers, lying on the ground, with volunteers and relatives attempting to identify them.

## Context of Illegal Mining

Niger State, rich in minerals, attracts numerous artisanal miners seeking gold. The illegal mining activities have been linked to violence by local criminal gangs, who extort miners and smuggle gold to international markets. The region also holds deposits of other valuable minerals like tantalite, copper, and lithium.

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