Seven miners have died after a mining pit collapsed at Kassa community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. on Wednesday while the victims were carrying out mining activities at the site.
A resident, Albert Danlami, said the earth suddenly caved in, trapping the miners underground.
He said residents and fellow miners immediately rushed to the scene and began rescue efforts.
“The pit collapsed on the miners at about 7 pm,” Danlami said.
Some people were also injured during the incident, adding to the tragedy in the mining community.
The Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed the incident.
Tengwong said rescue efforts began immediately, but the trapped miners were found dead when they were eventually brought out.
“Efforts were made to rescue the miners after the incident, but they were found dead,” he said.
The latest tragedy has renewed concerns over the safety of informal and artisanal mining sites across Plateau State.
Poor safety measures, unregulated excavation and inadequate geological assessments have continued to expose miners to serious risks.
The incident is also expected to fuel calls for stricter mining regulations, regular safety inspections and improved equipment to prevent further loss of lives
