At least 13 confirmed Dead in Mining Site Collapse in Plateau State
At least thirteen people have been confirmed dead following the collapse of a mining site in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The tragic incident was reported by Dr. Joshua Riti, the Chairman of the local government, during a press briefing in Jos, the Plateau State capital as he expressed deep concern over the fatalities, with the collapse occurring at the borders of Bassa, Jos South, and Jos North LGAs.
The victims, mostly young individuals, were reportedly engaged in illegal mining activities in an attempt to earn a living amid the country’s economic difficulties.
According to reports, most of the victims were young adults aged between 18 and 30, who had resorted to mining as a means of survival. The unlicensed miners, known to operate in local areas, were engaged in extracting resources without official permits, a practice that exposed them to significant risks.
This incident highlights the growing dangers associated with illegal mining in many parts of Nigeria, where people, especially youths, often turn to such activities due to the lack of alternative livelihood opportunities. The collapse serves as a reminder of the need for better regulation and safer working conditions in the mining sector.