A massive mining accident shook Company Jurak village in the Vase Local Government area of Plateau State, Nigeria, on Wednesday morning. Workers at a Chinese-owned mining site were extracting lead and zinc when a sudden gas leak caused the deadly incident.
At least 37 workers died instantly after inhaling toxic carbon monoxide. Most victims were young men between 20 and 35 years old. Another 26 workers suffered severe health issues and are currently receiving hospital treatment, with several in critical condition.
The accident occurred as miners went deep into underground tunnels with poor ventilation. They inhaled high levels of carbon monoxide, which caused them to lose consciousness. Officials say inadequate safety protocols worsened the situation.
The Nigerian military immediately secured the site. Plateau State Information Minister Joice Ramnap confirmed the accident and criticised the mine’s weak safety measures. She said the government has shut down the mine and ordered a full investigation into its operations.
This tragedy highlights serious concerns about mining safety in Nigeria, especially at foreign-operated sites. Authorities urge strict compliance with safety regulations to prevent similar disasters in the future.
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