At least 34 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing of a police officer during an attack on joint security operatives by illegal miners at Zuzungi Gwari in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Niger State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the recent incident involving NSCDC personnel, the police, and the state’s local Anti-Drugs Control (ADC) team.
Commandant Aniviye stated that Police Constable Emmanuel Samson was killed during the attack. The assailants also stole his rifle, which was later recovered. In addition, an NSCDC Hilux patrol vehicle was completely destroyed by fire.
He explained that 15 suspects were intercepted while attempting to flee the community, while the remaining 19, including the village head, were arrested after evidence revealed they had harbored the attackers.
The community reportedly mobilized and attempted to confront the reinforced security team during the evacuation.
“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, our operatives discovered that the village head had provided shelter to 19 of the suspects, effectively aiding their evasion,” Aniviye said.
The Commandant noted that the mining site involved is licensed to Millennium Metals Mining Company, and the security operatives were deployed to safeguard the facility.
He described the incident as a “coordinated attack on the patrol team.”
Aniviye further emphasized that the NSCDC Act (2003, amended in 2007) empowers the Corps to protect mining facilities, prevent illegal mineral dealings, and safeguard national assets.
The commandant vowed that the Niger State Command remains committed to protecting legitimate mining operations, combating illegal mining activities, and ensuring the safety of lives and property.
He added that normalcy is gradually being restored in the community with the presence of reinforced security personnel.
Village head among 34 arrested after deadly attack on security operatives in Niger
