Nigerian forces fire at protesters rallying over deaths of detained miners
Summary
Security forces in Nigeria used tear gas and fired at protesters who were upset about the deaths of 37 miners held in custody. The miners died while detained for illegal mining, and the government has started an investigation into the cause of their deaths.Key Facts
- 37 miners died while in custody of Nigeria’s Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
- The miners were arrested for illegal mining in the Wushishi-Lukoto area near Minna city.
- Protesters gathered in hundreds in Minna to demand answers about the miners’ deaths.
- Security forces fired at protesters and used tear gas; it is unclear if live bullets or pellets were used.
- A 24-hour curfew was imposed in the area by the state governor.
- The NSCDC initially suggested disease might have caused the deaths but later said the cause is not confirmed.
- An intelligence report suggested poor ventilation and overcrowding in the cells may have caused the deaths.
- The Niger State NSCDC commander was suspended while the government investigates.
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