The Police have begun investigation of the death of 33 arrested illegal miners in the detention facility of the Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Niger Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, announced this in a statement on Thursday in Minna.

According to Abiodun, the state commissioner of Police Adamu Elleman gave order for immediate investigation into the unfortunate death of the suspected illegal miners

The Police spokesperson the directive was as a result of the unfortunate incident which occurred at the early hours of Sept. 17, where 33 arrested suspected illegal miners were found dead while in custody.

Consequently, the CP has directed the DCP, SCID Minna to take charge of the investigation so as to unravel the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident.

The Niger Police Commissioner also called on family members, relatives of the deceased, and members of the public who might have credible information that could aid the investigation process to come forward to SCID Minna and render such.

He also urged members of the public, residents, family members and acquaintances of the victims to remain calm, law-abiding, cooperate and support the investigative efforts.

Elleman assured the citizens that no stone would be left unturned towards unravelling the cause of the incident.

The CP stated that the Command remained committed to upholding human rights provisions as well as ensuring accountability in the discharge of statutory responsibilities by law enforcement agencies.

(NAN)