An independent committee investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has started its work.

The miners died after their arrest during enforcement operations around the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Minna, Niger State, on September 15 and 16.

The committee’s secretary, Isa Chiroma, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said members held their first meeting after inauguration by the Minister of Interior and adopted a work plan for the inquiry. The team will visit relevant sites, engage government agencies, and interview survivors, suspects and others with knowledge of the incident.

A medical team has already begun examining the cause and manner of the deaths. The committee also plans to collect documents and invite memoranda from the public to support a thorough and transparent investigation.

Meanwhile, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, has assured that the Corps will not shield anyone found culpable. He made the pledge during a condolence visit to the Emir of Minna and the families of the deceased and survivors.

Audi said the Federal Government, acting on a directive from the Presidency, set up the high-powered investigative committee. He added that the NSCDC is fully cooperating and has placed relevant personnel in protective custody to ensure they are available for the probe.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper