Niger Mining Tragedy: 33 Suspected Miners Die In Detention After Wushishi/Lukoto Raid
At least 33 suspected illegal miners have died while held in a detention facility managed by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.
The victims were arrested during coordinated enforcement operations targeting illegal mining hubs in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas between 15 and 16 September 2026.
A survivor speaking from Minna General Hospital and relatives of the victims stated that roughly 65 people were packed into a single, severely overcrowded cell lacking proper ventilation or a functioning fan. Detainees allegedly screamed for air and repeatedly banged on the cell door for help, but their pleas were ignored by the guards on duty.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, ordered the immediate suspension of the Niger State NSCDC Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye and investigations are on.