MINNA: The Niger State Police Command has taken over the scene where 37 suspected illegal miners died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as authorities begin a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The development follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, for the police to establish what happened and determine the circumstances that led to the deaths.
The investigation is also expected to examine issues of accountability, transparency and the constitutional rights of the deceased.
The Commissioner of Police in Niger State, CP Adamu Elleman, directed Operation Flush patrol teams to secure and cordon off the location where the miners died.
The move is intended to preserve the scene and protect potentially relevant evidence as investigators begin examining the incident.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna has also commenced preliminary forensic investigations.
According to the police, the forensic exercise is aimed at establishing the facts and circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The command said every relevant aspect of the incident would be examined as part of the investigation.
The Niger State Police Command said the investigation would be conducted professionally and diligently, with relevant evidence and circumstances surrounding the deaths thoroughly considered.
CP Elleman also assured the families and relatives of the deceased that the police would pursue the matter in accordance with the law.
He appealed to members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigators while the inquiry continues.
The police commissioner said any findings arising from the investigation would be handled appropriately in line with existing laws and due process.
The incident involves 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the NSCDC in Minna, Niger State.
The deaths have triggered investigations by the authorities, with the NSCDC also taking disciplinary and investigative steps involving officers linked to the incident.
On Sunday, the NSCDC paraded its suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Suberu Aniviye, alongside other officers connected to the deaths.
The officers were presented at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, where the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, briefed journalists on its preliminary findings.
The police investigation is expected to provide an independent examination of the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
With the police now securing the scene and forensic investigators examining the circumstances, attention is focused on establishing a clear account of events leading to the deaths of the miners.
The Niger State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to accountability, transparency, respect for human rights and the administration of justice.
The outcome of the investigation could help establish the sequence of events, the circumstances surrounding the deaths and whether any individual or institution bears responsibility under the law.
For now, the police have urged the public to allow investigators to complete their work and avoid actions that could interfere with the ongoing inquiry.
