Africa-Press. At least 43 people have died in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, after inhaling toxic fumes during an attempt to “steal fuel” from a pipeline in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
The incident occurred at the Okari jetty in the main Okrika area, where a vessel was loading petroleum products in preparation for export.
Local sources reported that over 200 youths from neighboring communities arrived on wooden boats and attempted to steal fuel from an illegal connection point on the pipeline linked to the facility.
Witnesses explained that the victims were exposed to concentrated chemical fumes while loading fuel onto their boats, leading many to lose consciousness.
Sources indicated that some individuals fell into the river and drowned, while others managed to escape but are suffering from severe respiratory complications and are currently receiving treatment.
It was reported that 37 of the deceased have been identified as residents of Okrika, while the identities of six others remain unknown, and several individuals are still missing.
A spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances of the deaths and to ascertain the actual number of victims.
In a statement, the executive director of a local youth and environmental advocacy center noted that the victims had extended a pipe to a theft point on the pipeline transporting petroleum products from the Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals facility, passing through the Port Harcourt refinery, and reaching export vessels.
He added that the victims were loading the stolen fuel onto boats waiting at the site, coinciding with one of the vessels receiving supplies through the pipeline.
According to the report, at least 37 individuals suspected to be oil thieves died after inhaling what is locally known as Indorama fuel. Many others are still missing.
The advocacy center has called on the national agency responsible for detecting and responding to oil spills to conduct a joint investigation into the incident.
The executive director also urged operators of the affected facilities to enhance security measures around oil and gas installations to prevent sabotage and illegal oil theft.
He warned against tampering with oil and gas facilities, highlighting the risks associated with petroleum products transported under high pressure.
Additionally, he called on the Nigerian government to provide alternative livelihood opportunities in the Niger Delta region through initiatives that include establishing modular refineries, legalizing artisanal refining activities, and implementing industrial development programs.
