The Federal Government panel investigating the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has identified institutional lapses and overzealousness in the handling of the detainees.
Chairman of the 10-member panel, Jonathan Kure, disclosed this on Tuesday while giving an update on the investigation in Abuja.
Kure said the preliminary findings also pointed to areas requiring improved training and professionalism among NSCDC personnel.
He, however, stressed that the findings were not final, as the panel was still reviewing evidence and awaiting forensic and pathology reports needed to determine the circumstances and causes of the deaths.
The committee has inspected the detention facility in Minna, conducted autopsies and taken statements from NSCDC personnel, survivors, relatives of the deceased and other witnesses. It has also collected documentary and forensic evidence.
The panel was initially expected to submit its report on October 7 but has secured a two-week extension to October 21 to complete the investigation.
Kure said the additional time was necessary to review the volume of evidence, obtain pending medical reports and allow all persons implicated, including suspended officers, an opportunity to respond.
The Federal Government constituted the panel after the 37 detainees died in NSCDC custody in Minna, Niger State, following their arrest during operations against suspected illegal mining in September. The government had also suspended officers linked to the incident pending the outcome of the investigation.
