An independent investigative committee set up by the Federal Government has found that 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State were victims of asphyxiation.

The chairman of the committee and former Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, Jonathan Kure, disclosed this on Tuesday while presenting the panel’s report to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in Abuja.

The findings mark a significant development in the investigation into the deaths of the 37 suspects, who reportedly died on September 17, 2026, while in the custody of the NSCDC Niger State Command in Minna.

The deceased were among dozens of persons arrested during operations against suspected illegal mining activities in the M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto areas of Niger State.

Asphyxiation refers to a condition in which the body is deprived of sufficient oxygen, potentially resulting in death.

The committee’s findings are expected to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the deaths and possible accountability for the incident.