The National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced a formal investigation into the deaths of 40 suspected illegal miners who were in its custody in Niger State following a recent enforcement operation.
The incident occurred after the NSCDC conducted a crackdown on illegal mining activity in the region, a sector that has long been a source of tension due to safety concerns and environmental impact.
According to the agency, the 40 miners died while in detention, prompting the launch of a probe to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.
Details of the operation and the conditions that led to the deaths have not yet been released, and the NSCDC has said it will cooperate with any independent inquiries.
The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of illegal mining in Niger State and the safety protocols of security forces operating in the area.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>