Seven miners die in Plateau pit collapse

Seven miners have died in Plateau State, Nigeria, after a mining pit collapsed in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. on Wednesday while the miners were working underground.

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The victims were trapped underground following the collapse, prompting residents and other miners to commence efforts to recover them.

Community member Albert Danlami told PUNCH newspaper that the miners were trapped when the earth caved in. Residents and other miners immediately began rescue efforts, but the victims were found dead. The collapse caused panic in the community, with many rushing to the site to help.

The deaths have reignited concerns over safety conditions at mining sites across Plateau State, where informal and artisanal mining are common. This incident follows a major disaster in February where an explosion at a mining site in Wase Local Government Area killed at least 33 people, according to the Plateau State Government.

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Efforts were made to rescue the miners after the incident, but they were found dead.

Residents of Kassa highlighted the need for stronger government oversight of mining operations. Timothy Bako, a community member, stated that the victims were young men supporting their families and alleged the site lacked basic safety measures. The latest tragedy underscores the dangers associated with poorly regulated mining, especially underground operations without adequate safety protocols.

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The victims were young men working to support their families and alleged that the mining site lacked basic safety measures.