The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has detained three more personnel over the deaths of suspected illegal miners in Niger State, bringing the total number of officers in custody to 24.

NSCDC spokesman Babawale Afolabi announced the additional arrests in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday. The Corps had earlier announced the detention of 21 personnel after the miners died while in its custody.

The three newly identified officers have been suspended, and all those held have been moved to the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. There they are being interrogated and facing administrative disciplinary action. According to Afolabi, they will also be handed over to the Presidential Independent Investigation Committee and other panels for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Among those in custody are the suspended Niger State Commandant, Subaru Siyaka Aniviye; Ajayi Philips, Head of Intelligence and Investigation; John Agrahau Chagwa, Head of Operations; Obafemi Elvis; and Stephen Tsado, Officer-in-Charge of Legal.

The arrests followed the deaths, which occurred on Thursday, September 17, 2026. On Saturday, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced a 10-member independent committee to investigate the incident, acting on President Bola Tinubu’s directive for a comprehensive, transparent and unhindered probe. Tunji-Ojo also ordered the suspension of all officers allegedly involved.

NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Audi said the Corps would ensure due process and accountability, adding that anyone found culpable would face internal disciplinary measures and the law.

“As a Corps built on integrity, professionalism, discipline, and absolute respect for the rule of law, we do not condone unprofessional conduct, high-handedness, or any action that undermines the fundamental rights of citizens or the sacred trust reposed in us,” Audi said.

The Corps has ordered its flag flown at half-mast across all formations for three days starting Sunday, as a mark of mourning. The federal panel is expected to establish what happened and determine who, if anyone, bears responsibility.