The Niger State Police Command has taken over the scene of the deaths of artisanal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and commenced an investigation into the incident.
The probe follows a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensure accountability, transparency and respect for the constitutional rights of the deceased.
The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, CP Adamu Elleman, has directed Operation Flush patrol teams to secure and cordon off the scene.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Minna, has also commenced preliminary forensic investigations to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Police Command said the investigation would be conducted professionally and diligently, with all relevant facts surrounding the deaths thoroughly examined.
CP Elleman assured the families and relatives of the deceased, as well as members of the public, that the command would pursue the investigation in accordance with the law and due process.
He appealed to the public to remain calm, patient and cooperative as the investigation continues, assuring that any findings arising from the inquiry would be appropriately handled in line with extant laws.
The Niger State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, transparency, respect for human rights and the administration of justice.
Thirty-seven suspected illegal miners died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The NSCDC on Sunday paraded its suspended Niger State Commandant, Commandant Suberu Aniviye, and other officers linked to the deaths.
The officers were paraded at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Sauka, Abuja, as the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, briefed journalists on its preliminary findings.
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