Cynthia Ezegwu
A mining site collapse in the Dura community, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, has claimed the lives of four miners.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday night, trapped the victims while they were working inside the pit.
A resident, Chuwang Davou, confirmed the development on Friday, describing it as a tragic situation for the community.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s aide on Artisanal Mining, Solomon Dung, also confirmed the incident. He explained that three of the miners died on the spot, while the fourth, who was rushed to the hospital, later died from injuries sustained.
“It happened yesterday at Dura community. From what I was told, some boys were working in a mining pit, and the ground just collapsed on four of them. Three died instantly, and one other person was taken to the hospital, and unfortunately, he also died,” Dung said.
The Plateau State Police Command’s spokesman, Alabo Alfred, could not be reached for comment as his mobile line was switched off.
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The tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers of artisanal mining in Plateau communities and renewed calls for improved safety measures to protect miners.
Only on Thursday, the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) and the University of Jos urged stakeholders in the mining sector to adopt modern practices to improve safety and address insecurity.
Speaking at a two-day capacity-building workshop for miners in Plateau State, PTDF Executive Secretary, Ahmed Galadima, and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, emphasized that adherence to international standards and best practices could reduce risks and strengthen community development in mining areas.