NSCDC Custody Deaths: Pyrates Demand Arrest of Illegal Mining Site Owners

The National Association of Seadogs, also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, has called for the arrest and prosecution of the owners of illegal mining sites linked to the detention of 37 suspected illegal miners who died in NSCDC custody in Niger State. The group said the tragedy should trigger a broader investigation into the ownership and operation of illegal mining sites where the detainees were reportedly arrested. According to the association, authorities should establish who owns the sites and investigate whether the operators contributed to the circumstances that led to the deaths. The group also called for an overhaul of detention practices across the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies, highlighting concerns including overcrowding, medical screening, emergency response, sanitation, ventilation and detainee monitoring. The Federal Government has already constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the reported deaths. The committee has been mandated to establish the identities of the deceased, examine their arrests and detention, determine the causes and circumstances of the deaths, and identify any responsibility, negligence or misconduct. The government has also suspended the NSCDC Niger State Commandant and other officers connected with the incident pending the outcome of the investigation. The Pyrates Confraternity urged the government to ensure that the investigation does not become another report that is eventually shelved, calling for accountability for anyone found culpable. Source: https://saharareporters.com/2026/09/22/nscdc-suspects-deaths-pyrates-confraternity-demands-arrest-owners-illegal-mining-sites