The Niger State Police Command has taken over the investigation into the deaths of artisanal miners who reportedly died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna.

The development follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, as part of efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure accountability, transparency and respect for constitutional human rights.

The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, mnips, has directed the deployment of Operation Flush patrol teams to secure and cordon off the scene of the incident.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Minna, has also commenced preliminary forensic investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

The command said the investigation would be conducted diligently and professionally, with efforts focused on establishing the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident.

CP Elleman assured the families and relatives of the deceased, as well as members of the public, that the Police Command would pursue the investigation in accordance with the law.

He appealed for calm, patience and cooperation from the public, urging individuals with relevant information to cooperate with investigators as the inquiry progresses.

The command further stated that any findings arising from the investigation would be handled in accordance with extant laws and due process.

The statement was signed by SP Wasiu Abiodun, Police Public Relations Officer, Niger State Command, on September 19, 2026.