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Tragedy struck in Kataeregi, Niger State, on Wednesday as suspected illegal miners launched a deadly attack on a joint security patrol team, killing one officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and setting an operational vehicle ablaze.
The attack occurred at about 12:30 hours on 11th February, 2026, at Zuzungi, when a joint patrol comprising personnel of the NSCDC, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and local security operatives known as Anti-Drugs Control (ADC), in collaboration with Millennium Metals Mining Company, was carrying out a lawful operation to curb illegal mining and prevent mineral smuggling.
According to the Niger State Command of the NSCDC, the team had intercepted individuals suspected of illegally transporting solid minerals when armed illegal miners launched a violent assault on the operatives.
During the attack, the assailants set fire to an NSCDC Hilux patrol vehicle.
The State Commandant, Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, who spoke through the Public Relations Officer, DSC Abubakar Rabiu Muti, condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and a direct affront to constituted authority and Nigeria’s economic security.
He emphasized that mining sites and solid mineral resources are classified as Critical National Assets under the Nigerian law, and illegal mining amounts to economic sabotage.
The Corps, he said, remains the lead agency in protecting mining assets and enforcing compliance in partnership with other security agencies.
Commandant Aniviye vowed, ” those responsible for the killing and destruction would be hunted down and prosecuted. There would be no hiding place for perpetrators of violence against security personnel”.
He warned all illegal miners to immediately vacate unauthorized sites, stating that continued defiance would attract intensified enforcement operations and severe legal consequences.
“The NSCDC will not tolerate violence, sabotage, or resistance against officers performing lawful duties. Anyone involved in illegal mining, mineral smuggling, or aiding such crimes will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he said.
The Command extended condolences to the family of the fallen officer and assured that a comprehensive manhunt has commenced.
He urged members of the public, particularly residents around mining communities to provide useful information to aid investigations.
Niger: Illegal miners kill NSCDC officer in Kataeregi attack, burn patrol vehicle
