Keji MustaphaScores Injured as Illegal Miners Clash with NSCDC Mining Marshals in Niger
By Abu Nmodu | 19 October 2025 | News
Sabon Daga, Niger State –
Dozens of people were reportedly injured yesterday during a violent confrontation between suspected illegal miners and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals in Sabon Daga, Bosso Local Government Area of Niger State.
The clash occurred when the marshals attempted to arrest miners involved in unauthorized gold and gemstone extraction. Sources said the illegal miners, armed with dangerous weapons, resisted the operation, prompting a tense standoff.
According to witnesses, the incident began at approximately 9:00 a.m., leading to a temporary breakdown of law and order in the community. Traffic along the busy Minna-Bida road was reportedly gridlocked as the situation unfolded.
The NSCDC Niger State Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Abubakar Rabiu Muti, confirmed the attack, stating, “At around 9:22 a.m., our personnel were confronted by hoodlums while trying to apprehend suspects engaged in illegal mining activities.”
He reassured the public, noting that “despite the attack, our personnel exercised restraint and withdrew without escalating the situation. There were no civilian casualties, and the injuries sustained were limited to some of our personnel. Damage was confined to a few vehicles.”
DSC Rabiu emphasized that the Corps remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s critical assets and infrastructure, pledging continued efforts to curb illegal mining activities across the state.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in Niger State, where illegal mining has remained a persistent threat to both public safety and the nation’s mineral resources.
Mustapha Alhaji
