Scores Feared Dead as Gold Mining Pit Collapses in Zamfara

A major tragedy struck Zamfara State on Thursday night when a gold mining pit collapsed at the Kadauri mining site in Maru Local Government Area, leaving scores of artisanal miners feared dead.

According to eyewitnesses and survivors, more than 100 people were working underground when the pit caved in following heavy rains that had weakened the soil. Local resident Isa Sani, one of the survivors, recounted that only about 15 miners were rescued alive, while dozens remain trapped beneath the rubble. “There were more than 100 people inside; only a handful came out alive,” he said.

Rescue efforts have been ongoing, led by local volunteers, community members, and the Zamfara State Emergency Management Agency (ZSEMA). So far, at least 13 bodies have been recovered, though the police confirmed eight deaths in their official update. Authorities warned that the d+ath toll could rise as operations continue. Reports also indicate that some rescuers suffocated while trying to reach the victims.

Bala Ahmad, Executive Secretary of ZSEMA, confirmed the incident but noted that the exact number of casualties remains uncertain due to the large number of miners involved. The Zamfara State Miners Association also expressed grief over the dis@ster, pledging support for ongoing rescue operations.

Mining accidents are not uncommon in Zamfara, where unregulated artisanal mining activities thrive despite government bans. Many of the sites lack safety standards, and heavy rainfall often contributes to pit collapses. Residents say illegal mining in the region is further complicated by the presence of armed groups who profit from the activity.

The tr@gic incident has once again highlighted the d+ngers faced by thousands of Nigerians who depend on artisanal mining for survival despite the life-thr+atening r+sks.

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