BREAKING: NSCDC Detains Niger Commandant, Others Over 33 Custodial Deaths

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested and detained personnel of its Niger State Command over the death of 33 alleged illegal miners in custody, as investigations into the incident intensify.

The Corps also ordered its flag to be flown at half-mast in all commands, formations and directorates nationwide for three days from Sunday, September 20, 2026, in mourning for the victims.

Addressing journalists at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja on Sunday, National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, said Commandant-General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi was deeply disturbed by the September 17 incident.

According to the briefing, the officers and men linked to the operation have been taken into protective custody at the National Headquarters in Abuja for interrogation and possible disciplinary action.

The Corps said the action was taken in conjunction with the Commandant-General’s Special Investigation Squad, adding that a Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other investigative panels would have access to the detained personnel.

Afolabi said 24 personnel had initially been placed on suspension, while the Corps would ensure that anyone found culpable faced disciplinary measures and prosecution where applicable.

The NSCDC also released the names of the affected personnel, including the Niger State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, and officers involved in operations, investigation, intelligence, legal and custodial duties.

Audi said the Corps would not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness or actions that violate citizens’ fundamental rights.

“As a Corps built on integrity, professionalism, discipline and absolute respect for the rule of law, we do not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness, or any action that undermines the fundamental rights of citizens,” the briefing stated.

The Corps said the three-day half-mast directive was a demonstration of grief, institutional remorse and its commitment to accountability.

The latest NSCDC briefing refers to 33 deaths, although other official accounts and recent reports have put the number at 37. The exact circumstances and cause of the deaths remain under investigation. Recent reporting also confirms that the Federal Government has launched an investigation and suspended personnel connected with the incident.

The NSCDC assured Nigerians that the investigation would be transparent, adding that further information would be released as the inquiry progresses.