What You Need to Know
A tragic incident in Plateau State, Nigeria, has claimed the lives of over 30 miners due to a suspected toxic gas leak at a mining site. Local leaders and witnesses report that several miners were rescued and taken to nearby hospitals for urgent care. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures in the mining industry.
Africa-Press. More than 38 people have died following an incident suspected to involve a toxic gas leak at a mining site in the Zourak area of Plateau State, North-Central Nigeria, according to local leaders and eyewitness accounts.
Witnesses reported that several miners were rescued alive and taken to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.
A local official stated that the workers were digging deep underground when they were exposed to toxic gas, resulting in the immediate deaths of 38 individuals. The victims were reportedly working to extract zinc from the site.
In the aftermath of the incident, security forces cordoned off the mining site to prevent residents from approaching. Local reports indicate that investigations and security measures have begun to address the risk of continued exposure to the gas.
Estimates of the number of casualties have varied in other reports, ranging from 33 to 38 fatalities, with indications of injuries, while an official final toll has yet to be released.
Mining in Nigeria has a long history, often marked by safety challenges and regulatory issues. The country is rich in minerals, including zinc, but incidents like these highlight the dangers faced by workers in the sector. Efforts to improve safety standards have been ongoing, yet accidents continue to occur, prompting calls for stricter regulations and oversight.
