Many feared dead in Taraba mining accident

More than 20 people are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed on miners in Mayo Kam community. This happened in the Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State on Thursday afternoon.

A local resident, Kenneth Ayila, shared details about the incident with our correspondent. He said the miners were working when the pit fell in, trapping many people underground. The exact number of casualties is still not known, but over 20 people are feared dead.

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

Community leader Mallam Usman Bello said the event has left Mayo Kam in mourning. He added that most victims were from the local community. “Those who were killed in the mining pit are mostly from Mayo Kam community. Only a few people usually come from neighbouring communities to engage in mining here,” Bello said in Hausa.

“We are in total shock over the incident. This is a very sad day for the community,” he stated.

Attempts to get an official count of the dead from authorities were not successful at the time of this report. The spokesperson for the Taraba State Police Command, Victor Msherizar, said they had not received a report from the police area command in Bali.

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

This incident has raised new concerns about the safety of mining operations in Taraba State. Many worry that miners may be working without proper safety measures in place.

As of now, the full details about the collapse, including the number of people trapped or killed, have not been confirmed.