At least 20 people were killed when a mining pit collapsed in the Mayo Kam community of Bali local government area, Taraba state, Nigeria, on Thursday afternoon, according to local witnesses.
The collapse struck a group of illegal miners working in the pit, killing women and children among the victims. Residents said most of those who died were members of the Mayo Kam community, with only a few outsiders present at the site.
"A mining pit has collapsed on miners at Mayo Kam village in Bali Local government area of Taraba state this very afternoon, over 20 people feared dead," resident Kenneth Ayila told reporters.
Community leader Mallam Usman Bello, speaking on the phone in Hausa, said the tragedy has thrown the area into “total mourning.” He added that the victims were “mostly from Mayo Kam community, only few persons that use to come from outside communities to do mining in the pit.”
Police, however, gave a lower figure. Spokesman Victor Msherizar told journalists that five people were confirmed dead at the Mayo Kam mining pit.
The incident revives concerns over illegal mining in Taraba, where authorities have reportedly imposed a ban on such activities. The collapse highlights the risks faced by miners who operate without official permits or safety oversight.
Families and neighbours of the deceased gathered at the site, expressing shock and grief as they mourn the loss of community members.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
