The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, says it has increased the number of its personnel detained in connection with the deaths of suspected illegal miners in Niger State from 21 to 24.

The Commandant-General of the Corps, Professor Ahmed Audi, gave the assurance while reacting to the incident, saying the investigation will be guided by transparency, due process and accountability.

The NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant General Babawale Afolabi, disclosed this while parading the affected personnel at the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja.

He said three additional personnel had been identified and suspended following investigations into the incident.

According to him, all officers and men of the Niger State Command linked to the alleged misconduct were taken into protective custody at the National Headquarters on the 17th of September, 2026.

He said they are undergoing interrogation and administrative disciplinary procedures and will be made available to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigative panels for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The Commandant-General also ordered that the NSCDC flag be flown at half-mast across all formations of the Corps for three days, beginning Sunday, 20th September, in honour of the deceased.

Professor Audi said the directive reflects the Corps’ collective grief and determination to address misconduct within its ranks.

He stressed that the NSCDC does not condone unprofessional conduct, abuse of authority or any action capable of violating the fundamental rights of citizens.

The Commandant-General assured Nigerians that the Corps would continue to provide updates on the outcome of the investigation and reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, professionalism and the rule of law.

He also appealed for patience and understanding as the investigation continues.

The 24 personnel currently in custody include the suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, alongside senior officers responsible for intelligence, investigation, operations and legal affairs, as well as other personnel connected with the incident.