IGP Disu Visits Niger Over Death of 37 Miners in NSCDC Custody, Orders Thorough Investigation

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has visited Niger State following the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), pledging a thorough investigation into the incident.
Disu made the visit on Friday, September 18, 2026, where he was received by the Niger State Governor, Muhammad Umar Bago, alongside other dignitaries and heads of security agencies in the state.
The IGP described the deaths as a tragedy requiring urgent action, assuring the governor and residents that the Nigeria Police Force would investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
He called for cooperation with the NSCDC leadership and the committee established by the state government to investigate the deaths, stressing that loss of lives in lawful custody was a grave matter that could not be treated lightly.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Bago said the deceased were arrested a day earlier over suspected illegal mining activities but were later found dead in NSCDC custody.
The governor disclosed that the incident had caused serious unrest in the state, adding that forensic examinations and autopsies were expected to help determine the cause of death.
Bago also pledged the full support of the Niger State Government to the relevant security agencies to ensure a comprehensive investigation.

Disu appealed to residents, particularly the families of the deceased, to remain calm and law-abiding, warning that violence could worsen the situation.
He assured the public that the investigation would be conducted in accordance with the rule of law, due process, transparency and respect for human rights.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while safeguarding the rights and safety of persons in lawful custody.