The Plateau State Police Command confirms that 37 persons lose their lives while 26 others are hospitalised following a suspected toxic gas exposure at a mining site in Kampani Zurak Community, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the tragic incident occurs in the early hours of February 18, 2026, at about 6:00 a.m., when miners working at the site are allegedly exposed to dangerous gases in a confined environment. Authorities say the victims are believed to have inhaled toxic substances while carrying out mining activities.
In an official statement, the Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah, orders the immediate deployment of the Area Commander in Langtang, the Commander of 66 Police Mobile Force in Shendam, and Divisional Police Officers in charge of Bashar and Wase Divisions, alongside detectives, to the scene to coordinate rescue and investigation efforts.
Mediaplusng.com reports that security operatives promptly cordon off the affected mining area to facilitate emergency response and preliminary investigations. Initial findings indicate that the victims are suffocated by a sudden discharge of lead oxide and other associated gases, including sulphur and carbon monoxide—substances described as highly toxic, especially in poorly ventilated underground environments.
Police authorities disclose that the remains of the deceased have been released to their families for burial in accordance with religious rites, while the 26 hospitalised victims are currently receiving medical attention at designated health facilities.
According to Mediaplusng.com, to prevent further escalation and reassure residents, the Police Commissioner deploys Assistant Commissioners of Police in charge of Operations and the State Criminal Investigation Department to assess the situation. The Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, also known as the Anti-Bomb Squad, is also drafted to examine the scene thoroughly.
However, investigators clarify that no explosion or explosive device is detected at the mining site. Samples of rocks, soil, and mineral deposits are collected for detailed laboratory analysis to determine the precise cause and composition of the gas discharge.
Security experts note that exposure to gases such as carbon monoxide and sulphur compounds in enclosed mining environments can lead to rapid suffocation, unconsciousness, and death within minutes if safety measures are inadequate. The incident raises renewed concerns about occupational safety standards in informal and small-scale mining operations.
Commissioner Bassey Ewah expresses heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the people of Kampani Zurak Community, and residents of Plateau State. He warns strongly against illegal and unsafe mining activities, emphasizing that such operations pose significant risks to human lives and environmental safety.
The Police Command reassures the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to promptly report suspicious or hazardous activities to the nearest police station or through official emergency control room lines as investigations continue.
The tragic event underscores the urgent need for stricter safety compliance, regulatory oversight, and community awareness in Nigeria’s mining sector to prevent future occurrences and safeguard vulnerable workers operating in high-risk environments.
