Nigeria, Sept. 19 -- A new Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrived in Minna, Niger State.

Abdulhamid Kabara took over from Suberu Aniviye on Saturday, amid investigations into the deaths of persons arrested in connection with suspected illegal mining activities.

In a statement issued by the command's public relations unit, Mr Kabara expressed sadness over the loss of lives and sent his condolences to the families of the deceased and others affected by the incident.

He said the NSCDC would remain committed to its statutory responsibilities, including arrest, investigation, law enforcement and the fight against illegal mining, while emphasising that the sanctity of human life must remain paramount....