Scores feared dead in Taraba mining pit collapse
MAYO-KAM, Taraba State — Dozens of people, including women and children, are feared dead after a mining pit collapsed in the Mayo-Kam community within the Bali Local Government Area on Thursday.
Residents reported that the incident occurred while illegal miners were at work, leading to widespread mourning in the community. Kenneth Ayila, a local resident, indicated that more than 20 individuals were likely trapped or killed in the collapse.
“A mining pit has collapsed on miners at Mayo-Kam village this afternoon. Over 20 people are feared dead,” Ayila said.
Community leader Mallam Usman Bello corroborated Ayila’s account, noting that most of the miners were local residents. He emphasized that only a few miners typically arrived from surrounding communities, adding that the tragedy has left residents in shock.
“We are in total shock over the incident,” Bello stated.
The Taraba State Police Command has yet to confirm the exact number of casualties. Police spokesperson Victor Msherizar reported that five bodies had been recovered from the site, while rescue operations continue to locate and assist any remaining individuals.
“The police cannot confirm the total number of victims at this time,” Msherizar said, promising to provide updates as more information becomes available.
This incident has raised renewed concerns regarding illegal mining practices in Taraba State, particularly given the reported existence of a ban on such operations. As of the time of this report, there has been no official response from the state government regarding the tragedy.
