29.10.2026 17:09
Striking results have emerged in the investigation into the deaths of 37 of 67 people detained in Nigeria on suspicion of illegal mining. The independent investigation committee determined that the detainees died because they could not receive enough oxygen. While the report drew attention to institutional deficiencies and the excessive behavior of some officials, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered that the incident be investigated in all its aspects.
In the investigation into the deaths of 37 people in custody in Nigeria, the cause of death has been determined. According to the report prepared by the independent committee, the 37 people in custody lost their lives due to insufficient oxygen.
67 PEOPLE DETAINED, 37 LOST THEIR LIVES
In Nigeria's Niger State, 67 people were detained on suspicion of involvement in illegal mining activities. The suspects were held at a detention facility belonging to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the city of Minna. However, the deaths of 37 of those in custody on September 18 led to the launch of a comprehensive investigation into the causes of the incident. Following the mass deaths, the Nigerian government took action to shed light on all aspects of the incident.
CAUSE OF DEATH OF 37 PEOPLE DETERMINED
The 10-member independent committee formed to investigate the deaths completed its examinations and compiled its findings into a report. Committee Chairman Jonathan Kure presented the investigation report to Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in the capital Abuja. Kure announced that, as a result of autopsies and forensic examinations, it was determined that the 37 people died because they did not receive enough oxygen. Thus, an important finding was reached regarding the cause of the mass death incident that occurred on September 18.
DEFICIENCIES AT THE DETENTION FACILITY REVEALED
Within the scope of the investigation, detailed examinations were carried out at the detention facility in the city of Minna. Committee members took statements from the survivors of the incident, as well as from the relatives of those who lost their lives and NSCDC personnel on duty at the facility. The accounts of other witnesses, official documents, and forensic findings were also taken into consideration. The committee's preliminary findings pointed to institutional deficiencies and excessive behavior by some officials. Jonathan Kure emphasized that professionalism must be increased in procedures involving detainees.
PRESIDENT TINUBU ORDERED AN INVESTIGATION
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called for a comprehensive and transparent investigation after 37 people lost their lives while in state custody. Tinubu stated that the fundamental rights of those accused of illegal mining must also be protected during their detention.