By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Suspected illegal miners have killed a police constable and set ablaze a patrol vehicle belonging to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) during an attack on a joint security team in Niger State.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, February 11, 2026, targeted a patrol team comprising personnel of the NSCDC, the Nigeria Police and local vigilantes at a mining site operated by Millennium Metals Mining Company.
The slain officer was identified as Police Constable Emmanuel Shamsi.
Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, confirmed the attack and described it as the second such deadly assault by illegal miners in the state within five months.
He disclosed that 15 suspects were arrested while allegedly mobilising to launch a second attack on reinforcement teams deployed to the area.
Aniviye further revealed that the Village Head of Zuzungi community in Katcha Local Government Area and 18 others were arrested during a meeting at the traditional ruler’s residence in connection with the attack.
In addition, a total of 34 suspects have so far been apprehended over the incident, as security agencies intensify investigations.
According to the NSCDC commandant, the attackers were armed with dangerous weapons and attempted to overpower security operatives and seize their rifles, but were repelled.
He noted that the illegal miners were part of organised groups involved in unlawful mining and smuggling of mineral resources using motorcycles and other covert means.
The suspects are currently in custody and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Aniviye reaffirmed the NSCDC’s determination to crack down on illegal mining activities and protect Nigeria’s critical national assets.
He warned that individuals or groups sabotaging the nation’s economic resources would face decisive action.
Illegal Miners Kill Policeman, Burn NSCDC Patrol Van in Niger
