Illegal Mining Turns Deadly As Pit Collapse Claims Over 20 Lives In Taraba

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More than 20 people are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed on illegal miners at Mayo Kam community in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Thursday, has left the community in deep mourning, with residents saying many of the victims were from the area.

A resident of Mayo Kam, Kenneth Ayila, confirmed the incident to newsmen, saying the collapse happened while people were working inside the mining pit.

“A mining pit has collapsed on miners at Mayo Kam village in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State this very afternoon. Over 20 people feared dead,” Ayila said.

Another community leader, Mallam Usman Bello, described the incident as one of the worst tragedies the community has experienced.

Speaking in Hausa during a telephone interview with our correspondent, Bello said most of those trapped and killed were indigenes of Mayo Kam, while only a few came from neighbouring communities to engage in mining activities.

“Those who are killed in the mini pit are mostly from Mayo Kam community, only few persons that use to come from outside communities to do mining in the pit.

“We are in total shock over the incident,” Bello said.

Police authorities said they were yet to receive the official report on the incident.

The spokesperson of the Taraba State Police Command, Mr. Victor Msherizar, told our correspondent that the command was awaiting details from the police area command in Bali before making an official statement.

“We have not gotten the official report from the police area command Bali, as soon as we get the details, I will get you information,” Msherizar said.

The latest tragedy has renewed concerns over illegal mining activities in Taraba State despite reports of a government ban on unauthorized mining operations.

Illegal mining remains a major challenge in several parts of Nigeria, where poor safety standards, unregulated excavation and the absence of proper monitoring have repeatedly led to fatal accidents. Stakeholders have continued to call for stricter enforcement of mining regulations and improved safety measures to prevent further loss of lives.

As of the time of filing this report, rescue efforts and the exact number of casualties had not been officially confirmed by the authorities. Residents fear the death toll could rise as more victims are recovered from the collapsed mining pit.