At Least 43 Persons Reported Dead In Rivers State After Inhaling Toxic Fumes
At least 43 people died in Rivers State, Nigeria, after inhaling toxic fumes while attempting to siphon fuel from an illegal pipeline tapping point. The incident occurred as youths from neighboring communities boarded boats to steal petroleum products, leading to mass casualties from chemical exposure.
Why it matters
This tragedy underscores the severe risks associated with illegal oil bunkering and the lack of security around critical energy infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
Some of the youths reportedly fell into the river and drowned.
There was a tragic incident around midnight on Thursday at Okari Jetty in the Okrika Mainland, where a vessel was loading petroleum products for export.
During the activity, it was reported that no fewer than 43 people died after inhaling toxic fumes during an “illegal fuel siphoning operation” in Okrika LGA of Rivers State.
According to TheCable quoting sources in the community, more than 200 youths from neighbouring communities arrived in wooden boats and attempted to siphon fuel from an illegally connected tapping point on a pipeline linked to the facility.
A yet to be specified number of persons escaped with severe respiratory complications and are receiving treatment.
Witnesses said the victims were exposed to concentrated chemical fumes while loading the product into their boats, causing many to lose consciousness.
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