Niger: Many Trapped in Collapsed Mining Site
Numerous individuals are reportedly trapped after a mining pit collapsed in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. The incident occurred on Monday following a heavy downpour.
Abdullahi Arah, Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), confirmed the disaster. He noted that rescue efforts are hindered by the challenging terrain and ongoing banditry in the area.
NSEMA received a report about the collapse at a mining site in Galkogo village, owned by African Minerals and Logistics Limited. Arah attributed the collapse to rainfall softening the soil. While he did not specify the number of trapped individuals, local sources estimate that over 30 people might be beneath the rubble.
Rescue operations are complicated by the area’s insecurity, and information is scarce. Excavators have been deployed to assist in the rescue efforts. Attempts to contact Wasiu Abiodun, the police spokesperson for Niger State, have been unsuccessful.
Governor Umar Bago of Niger State had previously suspended all mining activities in the state as of August 2023.
