Tragedy in Nigeria: 37 Miners Die in Custody

Sep 18, 2026

64 min

Sep 18, 2026 17:30

Nigeria miners struggled to breathe in cell before 37 died: survivors

## Incident Overview

In a tragic incident in Nigeria, 37 individuals suspected of illegal gold mining died while in custody of a paramilitary civil defence group. Survivors reported severe overcrowding and lack of ventilation in the detention cell, leading to suffocation.

## Government Response

Following the incident, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has called for an urgent and thorough investigation. A civil defence commander has been suspended as part of the inquiry. The government has also imposed a curfew in Minna, the capital of Niger state, to manage unrest.

## Survivor Accounts

Survivors described desperate attempts to get fresh air and alert authorities to their plight. One survivor, Dauda Shehu, recounted the panic as they struggled to breathe, while another survivor noted that being near the cell entrance helped him survive.

## Public Reaction

The deaths have sparked anger and protests in Minna, with mobs targeting various establishments. The unrest reflects broader tensions in the region, where illegal mining and criminal activities are prevalent.

## Broader Context

Niger state is rich in minerals, attracting many artisanal miners. However, the region is also plagued by violence from criminal gangs and jihadists, who exploit the illegal mining activities for profit. The situation underscores the complex challenges facing the region, including security and economic issues.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram