The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has condemned a deadly attack by suspected illegal miners on a joint security patrol team in Zuzungi, Kataeregi, Niger State.
The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday during a routine operation aimed at curbing illegal mining and preventing the smuggling of solid minerals from the area. The patrol team comprised personnel of the NSCDC, the Nigerian Police Force, local security operatives known as the Anti-Drugs Control, and officials of the Millennium Metals Mining Company.
According to a statement issued by the NSCDC Niger State Command, the operatives were intercepting individuals suspected of illegally smuggling extracted minerals when they came under heavy attack from armed miners.
During the assault, an NSCDC officer was killed and an operational Hilux vehicle belonging to the corps was set ablaze.
The State Commandant, Suberu Aniviye, speaking through the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Abubakar Muti, described the attack as criminal and barbaric, noting that it amounted to a direct assault on constituted authority and the nation’s economic stability.
He stressed that mining sites and solid mineral resources are classified as critical national assets under Nigerian law, adding that illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage.
Aniviye reiterated that the NSCDC remains the lead agency in protecting mining sites and enforcing laws against illegal mining in collaboration with other security agencies.
“Any person found engaging in illegal mining, mineral smuggling, or aiding such criminal enterprises will be arrested, thoroughly investigated, and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he said.
The commandant added that attacks on security operatives constitute grave criminal offences, including murder, arson, economic sabotage and conspiracy against the state, assuring that those responsible would be tracked down and brought to justice.
He extended condolences to the family of the fallen officer, the Nigerian Police Force and the entire security community in the state, pledging that justice would be diligently pursued.
A comprehensive manhunt has since been launched to apprehend the perpetrators.
The corps called on residents, particularly those in communities around mining areas, to provide credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing investigations. It also urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts are intensified to restore peace and order in the affected area.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting critical national assets and defending the economic integrity of Niger State and the country at large.
