Rescue efforts for approximately 30 artisanal miners trapped in a collapsed mining pit in Niger state, Nigeria, have been hindered by threats from armed bandits.
The incident occurred on Sunday in the village of Galkogo, Shiroro district, where the miners were working for a local company. Abdullahi Baba Ara, head of the Niger State Relief Agency, reported that security personnel halted the deployment of rescue teams due to bandit threats.
“Our deployment to the area was halted by security personnel due to bandit threats,” Ara explained.
“Over 30 miners are trapped in the collapsed pit,” Ara confirmed. “Seven have been rescued with severe injuries, and efforts continue to save the others.”
The Shiroro district is among several areas in Niger State plagued by banditry, with frequent raids, lootings, and kidnappings. Despite challenges, rescue teams have managed to save seven miners with severe injuries, and efforts continue to rescue the remaining trapped individuals.
However, the exact number of miners trapped remains uncertain due to the difficult terrain and limited equipment.
The area is known for mining gold, tantalite, and lithium. Notably, the Niger state government had banned mining in Shiroro, Munya, and Rafi districts last year due to security concerns.
Nevertheless, artisanal miners have continued to operate in the area, driven by economic necessity after bandit attacks displaced many from their homes and farms.
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