At Least 100 Feared Dead in Northwest Nigeria Gold Mine Collapse, Locals Say

Maiduguri (Reuters): – Survivors and inhabitants said on Friday, Nigeria said that at least 100 people were killed after the collapse of a gold mining pit in Zamfara province.

Witnesses told Reuters in the field of Çukur Thursday in the field of Kadauri mining in Maru Local Government Zone. Rescue operations continued until Friday.

Sanusi Auwal, a local resident who participated in rescue efforts, said that at least 13 bodies were taken from the rubble, including his cousin. During the collapse, more than 100 miners were included, Au Auwal said to Reuters.

Isa Sani, who is still being treated for injuries, said, “We are lucky to be saved live. We are only 15 out of more than 100 people.” He said.

Zamfara State Mining Association confirmed the incident of Muhammadu Jesus and added that some savior drowned while trying to dig the victims.

Zamfara Police Spokesman Yazid Abubakar, calling for comments and short messages did not respond immediately.

Illegal mining is common in Zamfara, where armed gangs often control gold fields and increase violence and fatal accidents.