Dozens of suspected illegal miners die in Nigerian custody
Summary
Thirty-seven people suspected of illegal mining died while held in a detention center in Niger state, Nigeria. Authorities are investigating whether the deaths were caused by poor conditions, such as overcrowding and lack of air, or a possible disease outbreak.Key Facts
- The 37 suspected illegal miners died in custody two days after their arrest near Borgu in Niger state.
- The detainees were held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), a paramilitary agency that helps police.
- Early reports suggested a disease outbreak like diphtheria might have caused the deaths, but this has not been confirmed.
- Relatives said the detainees were kept in a hot, overcrowded, and poorly ventilated cell where people collapsed.
- Authorities have launched an investigation, and a NSCDC commander was detained after the incident.
- The Niger state governor declared three days of mourning and postponed election campaign activities.
- Post-mortem examinations are planned to determine the exact cause of death.
- Illegal mining is common in the region, and more than 50 people were arrested in the recent operation.
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