The Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for a full account of the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners arrested during an operation in Niger State

MAN made the call in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Fatai Kolawole, in Abuja on Saturday.

The 37 suspected illegal miners who died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Niger State Command were among the about 67 arrested and detained during an operation conducted at M.I. Wushishi and Lukoto Village by the corps on September 15 and 16.

Mr Kolawole said MAN remained firm in its stance that illegal mining damaged the environment, deprived the nation of revenue and endangered lives, including those of licensed operators who complied with regulations.

He said MAN would also not shield anyone who defaulted in mining operations, but stressed that suspects should not die in detention.

According to him, MAN has no wish to shield anyone who mines outside the law, but a suspect is not a convict and no arrest, however justified, should end with dozens of people dead within days.

He stated, “We therefore ask that the public be given a full account of who was arrested and on what grounds, where and for how long they were held, what medical attention they received and what caused each death.”

He added that autopsy and forensic findings should be made public rather than kept within official circles, while the families of the deceased should be kept informed throughout the investigation.

He said that if any officer or agency was found to have failed in its duty, the law should take its course.

According to him, beyond the incident, the government should rethink how illegal mining is tackled by ensuring that big players in the chain are not left scot-free.

He stated, “Rounding up labourers at the pit while the people who fund the operations, supply the machinery and buy the minerals go untouched will not solve the problem.

“Those higher up the chain should be the real target. At the same time, many small-scale miners work illegally largely because licences and support are out of their reach.”

Mr Kolawole said easier access to titles, together with training in safe practices, would bring more artisanal and small-scale miners into the system.

He said MAN also proposed a standard protocol for enforcement operations to be adopted by security agencies, regulators and industry stakeholders, covering the screening, detention and welfare of suspects.

“MAN appeals for calm while the investigations proceed and will gladly assist any panel that seeks the industry’s input,” he said.

He condoled with the families of the deceased, Governor Mohammed Bago and the people of Niger State.

(NAN)