Village Head, 33 Others Arrested Over Killing of Police Officer in Niger

The Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a village head and 33 other suspects over the killing of a Police Officer and the burning of an NSCDC patrol vehicle in Zuzungi Area of Katcha Local Government Area.

Global Mirror News gathered that the suspects were apprehended in connection with a violent attack allegedly carried out by illegal miners operating within the Area.

The State Commandant of the NSCDC, Comdt. Suberu Siyaka Aniviye, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Minna. He explained that the incident occurred during a joint patrol involving NSCDC operatives, officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and a local security outfit known as Anti-Drugs Control (ADC).

According to the Commandant, the joint team was conducting a routine patrol on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at about 12:30 p.m., around a mining site operated by Millennium Metals Mining Company when they intercepted individuals allegedly engaging in illegal mining and attempting to smuggle minerals out of the site.

He said the suspects reportedly mobilised and launched a coordinated attack on the patrol team in response to the interception.

During the confrontation, the attackers allegedly set an NSCDC Hilux patrol vehicle ablaze, while a Police Officer, Constable Emmanuel Shamsi, was killed in the line of duty.

Global Mirror News further gathered that security operatives tactically withdrew from the scene to prevent further casualties and escalation of violence.

Following the attack, the NSCDC said it acted swiftly on credible intelligence, launching a special operation the same day to track down those responsible.

Fifteen suspects were intercepted on the road while allegedly attempting to flee the community. Another 19 suspects, including the village head, were arrested at the residence of the traditional leader in Zuzungi Gwari area of Kataeregi, where some of the suspects were said to have taken refuge.

Comdt. Aniviye confirmed that all 34 suspects are currently in NSCDC custody. He added that investigations are ongoing and assured that those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.