The death of an NSCDC officer during an operation in Nasarawa State has taken a turn after police arrested three members of the agency’s Mining Marshals unit and uncovered financial transactions now under investigation.
The Nigeria Police Force has arrested Simeon Yakubu Anyebe, Ibrahim Ayefu, and ASC Iwodi Obochi in connection with the death of Deputy Superintendent of Corps (DSC) Agada Levi Agada.
Agada, who was also known as a pastor, died during an operation that has since become the subject of intense scrutiny.
The case has attracted growing attention following reports that investigators traced more than ₦2 billion through a bank account linked to a member of the NSCDC Mining Marshals unit.
Authorities are currently examining the transactions to determine whether any connection exists between the funds and the ongoing investigation.
The NSCDC investigation was reportedly launched by the Force Intelligence Department (FID) after members of Agada’s family submitted a petition. According to the petition, conflicting accounts emerged regarding how the officer lost his life.
One account reportedly claimed that bandits attacked the team during the operation. However, another version suggested that Agada was the only casualty while other officers were allegedly detained.
Moreover, information referenced in the family’s petition raised further questions. Medical findings cited in the petition allegedly suggested that the fatal gunshot may have originated from the firearm of another NSCDC officer.
As a result, investigators widened their inquiry and began questioning several personnel attached to the Mining Marshals unit.
According to police sources, some officers invited for questioning did not respond to the invitations. Furthermore, the three suspects were reportedly arrested while attempting to visit a remanded suspect at a correctional facility.
Meanwhile, Agada’s family has continued to demand a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The family alleged possible criminal conspiracy, unlawful killing, and efforts to conceal key details relating to the incident. In addition, concerns were raised over the alleged withholding of the deceased officer’s mobile phones.
Relatives also questioned what they described as inconsistencies in information provided after the incident occurred.
The investigation has therefore become a major focus for law enforcement authorities. Investigators are expected to examine witness statements, communication records, financial transactions, and other evidence connected to the case.
Meanwhile, police have called on the leadership of the NSCDC to make additional officers of interest available for questioning.
