Dozens die in Nigeria after inhaling toxic fumes in 'oil theft attempt'

At least 37 individuals lost their lives after inhaling toxic fumes while attempting to tap an oil pipeline in southern Nigeria, according to an environmental group. The exact toll has not been confirmed by authorities. The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre reported the incident occurred around midnight on Thursday at Okrika, located in Rivers State.

Police stated that the victims perished while trying to steal crude oil. The investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and verify the facts, stated Rivers police spokesperson ASP Blessing Kaborlo Agabe. This incident marks the worst known death toll since at least October 2023, underscoring the persistent issue of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region.

The environmental group claimed the incident took place at Okari Jetty while a vessel was loading, and suspects were siphoning a petroleum product under high pressure into boats. Others are reported missing, with bodies floating in the river. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps confirmed circulating casualty figures remain unverified and stressed the need for technical confirmation of the substance involved.

They are collaborating with security agencies to determine the number of dead, injured, and missing individuals, and to investigate potential negligence, collusion, or criminal facilitation.