About 37 miners have reportedly died while 25 others were injured after being exposed to carbon monoxide, while working in an underground mining site in Kompani Zurak, Wase LGA of Plateau state. The incident was said to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday.
The victims were said to be mostly young men aged 20 to 35 who were conducting routine mining operations when they inhaled the toxic gas that emerged from the tunnels.
Eyewitnesses told the publication that the miners subsequently collapsed inside the tunnels.
Twenty-five other victims have been taken to a nearby health facility for medical treatment.
Joyce Ramnap, commissioner of information in Plateau, confirmed the incident in a statement.
The statement said, “The Plateau State Government has received with deep shock and profound sadness reports of a tragic explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nig Ltd.
“According to preliminary information, about 33 persons were said to have been inside the mining tunnel at the time of the explosion.
“Sadly, many lives are feared lost, while others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.”
The statement extends the state government’s heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate incident.
“Government is deeply concerned about the development and is working closely with relevant security agencies, emergency responders, and health authorities to ensure that the situation is brought under control.”
It added that efforts were ongoing to secure the site, provide medical assistance to the injured, and prevent any further loss of life.
The government also called on residents of Kampani Zurak and surrounding communities to remain calm and law-abiding.
