The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps(NSCDC),Niger State command has arrested village head and (33) others in connection to the killing of Police Constable Emmanuel Shamsi,and setting ablaze patrol vehicle of NSCDC,by suspected illegal miners in Zuzungi area of Katcha local council.
The Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC, Comdt.Suberu Siyaka Aniviye,gave the hint while briefing journalists in Minna.
According to him".On Wednesday,11th February 2025 ,at about 12.30pm personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC),in collaboration with officers of the Nigeria Police Force(NPF)and local security outfit known as Anti-Drugs Control(ADC),were on a routine joint patrol in the mining area operated by Millennium Metals Mining Company".
Comdt.Aniviye added". During the patrol,the team intercepted some individuals engaged in illegal mining activities and attempting to smuggle minerals out of the mining site, adding that in a violent reaction,the suspected illegal miners mobilized and launched a coordinated attack on the patrol team.
The NSCDC boss explained that during the attack, NSCDC patrol Hilux vehicle was set ablaze by the attackers,disclosing that a Police Officer,Constable Emmanuel Shamsi of the Nigeria Police Force, tragically lost his life in the line of duty, saying that NSCDC and other security personnel tactically withdrew to prevent further escalation and casualties.
He further stated that following the incident,the command acted swiftly on credible intelligence,on the same day,a special operation was launched to apprehend those responsible for the attack.
He added".15 suspects were intercepted on the road, while, attempting to flee the community and 19 suspects, including the village head,were arrested at a residence of the village head himself, where the perpetrators had taken refuge in Zuzungi Gwari area of Kataeregi.
Comdt Siyaka noted that all (34) suspects are currently in NSCDC custody, adding that investigation is ongoing,and they will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
