One Dead, 6 Rescued, 30 Trapped Underground As Gold Mining Site Collapses In Niger State

A hole dug by gold miners has collapsed and trapped over 30 people in Galkogo village in Erana area of ​​Shiroro local government of Niger State, according to Zagazola media.

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has verified that one miner has passed away, with 30 others, including the site Manager Alh. Ibrahim Ishaku, trapped after a mining pit collapsed at Galkogo in Shiroro local government area of the state.

The tragic incident, as reported by NSEMA’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) Hussaini Ibrahim, occurred yesterday, Monday resulting in six individuals being rescued with severe injuries.

The statement from NSEMA, shared with the media in Minna, explained that heavy rainfall had softened the soil, causing the mining pit to collapse. The affected mine site is owned by a company called “African Minerals and Logistics Limited.”

“As of yesterday, one fatality has been confirmed, with six others rescued but severely injured. Approximately 30 individuals, including the site manager, Alh. Ibrahim Ishaku, remain trapped,” the PRO mentioned.

“Due to the dangerous conditions in the area due to banditry, details about the incident and ongoing rescue operations are limited,” NSEMA added.

The agency also informed that excavators have been mobilized for the rescue efforts.