Police Officer Killed as Illegal Miners Attack Joint Patrol in Niger State
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has issued a grave alert following a violent assault by suspected illegal miners on a joint security patrol team, which led to the tragic death of a police officer. This brutal incident underscores the escalating dangers faced by security personnel in the region as they combat illicit activities.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at approximately 12:30 p.m. in Zuzungi village, located near Kataeregi within the Bosso Local Government Area of Niger State. The joint patrol team, which included personnel from the NSCDC, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Anti-Drugs Control (ADC), was collaborating with the Millennium Metals Mining Company. They were conducting a routine operation aimed at curbing illegal mining and preventing the smuggling of solid minerals from a local mining site.
While intercepting individuals suspected of illegally extracting and smuggling minerals, the team came under heavy fire from the assailants. During the confrontation, the attackers allegedly set ablaze an operational Hilux vehicle belonging to the NSCDC. Tragically, one officer lost his life in the attack, highlighting the severe risks involved in such enforcement missions.
Clarification on Casualties
In a statement released on February 12, the spokesperson for the NSCDC Niger State Command, DSC Abubakar Rabiu Muti, confirmed the incident and addressed misinformation circulating in some media outlets. He categorically debunked false reports claiming that an NSCDC officer was killed during the attack.
"The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, wishes to categorically debunk the false and misleading reports circulating in some sections of the media alleging that an NSCDC officer was killed during the recent attack by illegal miners at Zuzungi, Kataeregi. For the avoidance of doubt, no officer of the NSCDC was killed in the incident. The Command clarifies that the casualty recorded during the unfortunate attack was a personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF)," Muti stated.
He emphasized the importance of verifying information from official sources to prevent the spread of inaccurate reports that could cause unnecessary panic or misrepresentation of facts. While mourning the loss of the police officer, who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, the NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets, including mining sites, and collaborating with other security agencies to combat illegal mining.
Response from NSCDC Commandant
The Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC, Commandant Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, condemned the incident as criminal and barbaric, describing it as a direct assault on constituted authority and the nation's economic stability. He noted that mining sites and solid mineral resources are classified as critical national assets under Nigerian law, and illegal mining constitutes economic sabotage.
Siyaka reiterated that the NSCDC remains the lead agency in protecting mining sites and enforcing against illegal mining activities, working in tandem with other security agencies. He issued a stern warning to individuals and groups involved in illegal mining across Niger State, urging them to desist immediately.
"We will not tolerate any act of violence, sabotage, or resistance against security personnel carrying out their lawful duties. Any person found engaging in illegal mining, mineral smuggling, or aiding such criminal enterprises will be arrested, investigated and prosecuted to the full extent of the law," he declared.
He further emphasized that attacks on security operatives constitute grave criminal offences, including murder, arson, economic sabotage, and conspiracy against the state. Siyaka assured that those responsible would be tracked down and brought to justice, and he advised illegal miners to cease operations and vacate unauthorized sites promptly, warning that continued defiance would lead to intensified security operations.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Appeal
The NSCDC command has launched a comprehensive manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous attack. They have urged members of the public, especially communities residing near mining areas, to provide credible information to security agencies to assist in the ongoing investigations. This collaborative effort is crucial for ensuring justice and preventing future incidents.
Commandant Siyaka extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the fallen police officer, the Nigeria Police Force, and the broader security community in Niger State. He reaffirmed the commitment to pursuing justice and maintaining security in the region, underscoring the NSCDC's dedication to its statutory mandates amidst growing challenges.
