37 Miners Dead, 25 Hospitalised After Suspected Gas Poisoning In Plateau

No fewer than 37 miners lost their lives after inhaling carbon monoxide at an underground mining site in Zurak, Wase LGA of Plateau state.

The incident reportedly happened in the early hours of Tuesday.

Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, reported that the victims were working inside the mine when poisonous gas suddenly filled the tunnels.

Most of the miners were young men between the ages of 20 and 35.

Witnesses said they collapsed underground shortly after breathing in the gas.

Another 25 people who were affected were rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.

The Plateau State Commissioner for Information,  Joyce Ramnap, confirmed that the incident occurred but said she had not yet received official details on the number of casualties.

Police sources disclosed that the mining area has been sealed off to stop further exposure and to allow a proper investigation into what caused the gas buildup.

Photos from the scene reportedly show the bodies of some miners covered in a white, powder-like substance.

Experts warned that underground mining carries serious health risks.

Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explained that miners can be exposed to dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide, especially during underground fires or explosions.

The Mayo Clinic also notes that carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen carried in the blood, which can cause severe organ damage or death if exposure is high or prolonged.

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