Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has visited Niger State Governor Umar Bago in Minna, promising a full investigation into the tragic deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
During his visit, Disu emphasized that deaths in custody fall directly under police jurisdiction and assured the public that the investigation will be thorough and transparent.
He appealed to local residents for calm and warned against taking the law into their own hands, confirming that police patrols will be stepped up to prevent further violence.
The tragedy, which followed enforcement operations against illegal mining in the Wushishi-Lukoto axis, triggered protests that led Governor Bago to impose a 24-hour curfew.
In response, the federal government suspended the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, while forensic and medical examinations including autopsies are currently underway to determine the exact cause of death.