Niger Miners’ Deaths: FG Probe Panel Finds Institutional Lapses

The Federal Government panel investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has identified institutional lapses and overzealousness in the handling of the detainees.

Chairman of the panel, Jonathan Kure, said preliminary findings raised concerns about the conduct of some NSCDC personnel during the arrest and detention of the miners. He added that the investigation had also identified areas where the agency requires improved training and professionalism.

Kure, however, stressed that the findings were preliminary and did not represent the panel’s final position, as the committee was still awaiting forensic and pathology reports to establish the circumstances and causes of the deaths.

He said the panel had inspected the custody facility, conducted autopsies and taken statements from NSCDC personnel, survivors, families and other witnesses. Documentary and forensic evidence has also been gathered as the committee continues its investigation.