37 killed in tragic accident at underground mining site in Plateau state
A devastating incident at an underground mining site in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 37 miners. The victims are believed to have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning during routine operations in the early hours of Tuesday.
According to Zagazola Makama, a publication specialising in counter-insurgency, the miners, predominantly young men aged between 20 and 35, were engaged in their regular duties when they inhaled toxic gas emanating from the tunnels.
Eyewitnesses recounted to the publication that the individuals subsequently collapsed within the confines of the underground shafts.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, 25 other miners were rushed to a nearby health facility, where they are currently receiving medical treatment for exposure. Joyce Ramnap, the Commissioner of Information in Plateau State, confirmed the incident to TheCable, though she noted that she was yet to be fully apprised of the exact casualty figures.
Police sources have indicated that the mining site has been secured to prevent further exposure and to facilitate a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the fatal gas leak. The images circulating online depicts the deceased miners covered in a white, powdery substance, underscoring the hazardous conditions.
