Plateau mining explosion Kills 33 at a site in Wase LGA, with several others injured and receiving treatment, officials confirm

The Plateau State Government on Wednesday confirmed that 33 persons were killed in a devastating explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of the state.

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The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mrs Joyce Ramnap, disclosed the casualty figure in a statement issued in Jos, describing the incident as tragic and deeply distressing.

According to Mrs Ramnap, preliminary information indicates that 33 persons were inside a mining tunnel at the time of the explosion at a site reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nig. Ltd.

“Others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals,” Mrs Ramnap said, adding that the government received the report with “deep shock and profound sadness”.

The Plateau Mining Explosion Kills 33 incident has heightened concerns over safety standards and security challenges surrounding mining activities in parts of the state.

Mrs Ramnap said the government was working closely with relevant security agencies, emergency responders and health authorities to ensure the situation is brought under control and to prevent further casualties.

The commissioner extended condolences to the families of the victims and urged residents of the affected community to remain calm and law-abiding while investigations continue.

The latest tragedy comes amid rising tensions linked to mining operations in Plateau State. Earlier this month, the Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area, Amalau Samuel Amalau, ordered the immediate suspension of all mining activities, both legal and illegal, following a series of deadly assaults on miners.

On January 22, gunmen attacked a mining site in Kuru community in Jos South Local Government Area, killing seven people.

In December, 12 persons were reportedly killed at night by suspected militia members at a mining site in the Ratoso Fan community of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

Authorities have yet to disclose the exact cause of Wednesday’s explosion. Investigations are expected to determine whether the incident was linked to operational hazards, criminal activity or other factors.