Nigeria investigates deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners — Premium Times Nigeria

In Nigeria, an independent committee has launched an investigation into the deaths of 37 people suspected of illegal mining who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Premium Times Nigeria reports that the committee has begun its work.

Investigation plan

Committee Secretary Isa Chiroma said that after its official establishment, the committee held its first meeting and approved a work plan. Its members are to visit all locations connected to the incident, engage with government institutions, and interview survivors, suspects, and other people who may have important information.

The committee also plans to obtain documents and other materials needed to establish the circumstances of the deaths. A medical team has already begun work to determine the cause, mechanism, and nature of the deaths. The main cause of the deaths has not yet been officially established.

Detentions and further action

The 37 suspected illegal miners died after being detained during operations in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas near Minna on September 15 and 16. Initially, 33 deaths were reported, but the authorities of Niger State later confirmed the deaths of 37 people.

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The NSCDC urged people not to speculate about the causes of the deaths, stressing the need for medical and laboratory examinations and autopsies. The incident sparked protests in some areas of Minna and became the subject of several investigations by the NSCDC, the Niger State authorities, and the federal government.

The 10-member committee is headed by retired SSS Deputy Director-General Jonathan Kure. It is to establish the identities of those who died, examine the circumstances of their detention and custody, and determine whether there was responsibility, negligence, or misconduct. It has been given two weeks to complete its work and submit a report.

The committee also plans to accept submissions from people and organizations that have information about the incident. The procedure and location for submitting materials, including the possibility of personal appearances, are promised to be announced later.