The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has assured the Niger State Government that the Nigeria Police Force will conduct a thorough investigation into the deaths of 37 persons in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the state.
Disu gave the assurance when he paid a condolence visit to Governor Umaru Bago at the Government House in Minna, following the incident.
The IGP said the police would work closely with the NSCDC and the Niger State Government to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensure that the investigation is conducted successfully.
He described deaths in custody as a serious matter that falls within the jurisdiction of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, the police have already taken charge of the scene to preserve evidence and prevent any tampering.
“Cases of deaths while in custody are very serious and fall under the confines of the Nigeria Police Force.”
He added that the police had secured the scene of the incident to ensure that nothing was removed, added or interfered with during the investigation.
The IGP appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, assuring that the police would ensure that due process is followed.
Responding, Governor Umaru Bago commended the IGP for visiting the state and expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their efforts in managing the situation.
Governor Bago disclosed that the state government had suspended mining activities across Niger State pending the outcome of the investigations into the incident.
He also pledged to provide the police and other security agencies with relevant information in the possession of the state government to assist the investigation and ensure a comprehensive outcome.
