At least 33 people detained during raids on suspected illegal gold mines in central Nigeria were found dead in the custody of a paramilitary agency, triggering protests and an official investigation, according to Reuters.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) detained the men during operations in the Wushishi-Lukoto area of Niger State between September 15 and 16.
Reuters reported that 33 bodies were later taken to a hospital in Minna, the state capital.
Nigeria’s Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo ordered the immediate suspension of the state NSCDC commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, pending a full investigation.
The deaths prompted angry protests in Minna, where demonstrators demanded justice and some vehicles were damaged, Reuters reported. Security forces were heavily deployed by Friday morning.
Nigeria has long struggled to shut down illegal mining operations, which authorities say cause environmental damage and reduce government revenue.
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VIDEO: Niger gov confirms death of 37 'illegal' miners in NSCDC custody, says commander suspended
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