The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Niger State Command, has arrested a village head and 33 others in connection with the killing of Police Officer Constable Emmanuel Shamsi and the setting ablaze of an NSCDC patrol vehicle by suspected illegal miners in the 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 12.30 pm, personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), in collaboration with officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and a 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 mobilised 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, tragically lost his life in the line of duty.

He said 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, launching a special operation on the same day 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 the village head’s residence, where the perpetrators had taken refuge, in the Zuzungi Gwari area of Kataeregi.”

Comdt Siyaka noted that all 34 suspects are currently in NSCDC custody, adding that investigation is ongoing and that they will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. (The Guardian)

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