Seven miners die as pit collapses in Plateau

Seven miners have died after a mining pit collapsed in Kassa community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State on Wednesday evening.

Residents told The PUNCH on Thursday that the collapse happened around 7pm while the miners were working.

A community member, Albert Danlami, said the victims were trapped underground when the ground gave way. This led to a rescue effort by other miners and residents.

He said, “The victims were trapped underground following the collapse, prompting residents and other miners to start recovery efforts.

“The incident caused panic in the community as residents rushed to the mining site after the collapse. The miners had been working at the site when the earth suddenly caved in on them. Some people were injured after the collapse.”

The Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Rwang Tengwong, confirmed this account. He told our correspondent, “Seven miners lost their lives in the incident, adding that the victims were at the mining site when the pit collapsed.”

He added, “Efforts were made to rescue the miners after the incident, but they were found dead.”

The disaster has left the Kassa community in mourning. Residents describe the loss as devastating and are calling for better mining safety from the government.

Community member, Timothy Bako, expressed his sadness over the deaths, saying, “We are heartbroken. These are young men who went to work to feed their families. The pit was too deep and there were no safety measures. Government must come and regulate these mining sites before more lives are lost.”

Another resident, who chose to remain anonymous, shared similar concerns. They said, “Every time we hear this kind of news. People are digging with bare hands and no support. We need help from the government and mining experts to stop this from happening again.”

Community leaders are urging the Plateau State Government and relevant agencies to provide immediate support to the bereaved families. They are also pushing for stronger safety rules to be applied across mining sites in the local government area.