Tragedy In Zamfara: 13 Confirmed Dead In Devastating Mine Collapse

According to Ireporter Online, the Federal Government has confirmed the death of thirteen out of fifteen miners who were trapped following the collapse of a mining pit in Jabaka village, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, last Thursday.

The confirmation was issued in a statement by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in Abuja. The Minister has ordered the deployment of Federal Mines Officers to coordinate the rescue operations in collaboration with state authorities. As of the time of this report, two individuals remain trapped in the collapsed site.

Dr. Alake described the tragedy as both avoidable and unfortunate, stressing that the affected site will be sealed once recovery operations are concluded. He expressed deep shock over the incident, noting that emergency responders have been mobilized and are working closely with local officials to recover the remaining victims.

Preliminary findings revealed that the collapsed site, known for its unstable sandy soil with traces of gold, was being exploited by illegal miners using crude tools despite the high environmental and safety risks. Authorities recalled that the government had, over a year ago, launched the mining marshals initiative, which has since led to the arrest of more than 300 illegal miners across 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the sealing of 98 illegal mining sites nationwide.