Dozens die in Nigeria oil theft attempt after inhaling toxic fumes
At least 37 individuals lost their lives in Nigeria's oil-producing Rivers state when attempting to steal oil from a loading vessel, according to an advocacy group. The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Center reported that the victims were simultaneously extracting crude products into their boats from an "illegal tapping point" on Thursday.
The toxic fumes inhaled during the process led to their fatalities, with many still missing, as per the report quoting a network of volunteers. The Nigerian police confirmed the incident on Friday, stating that the victims were allegedly attempting to steal crude oil. Although the police did not provide a death toll, they confirmed the investigation was underway.
Oil theft is a prevalent issue in Nigeria's Niger Delta region, Africa's largest oil producer, which has suffered from decades of oil exploration, resulting in high poverty levels and severe environmental degradation.
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Also reported by 5 other outlets
- 37 people die from fumes during oil pipeline theft in Nigeria kahawatungu.com
- Nigeria Oil Theft Tragedy: At Least 37 Die After Toxic Fumes Overwhelm Illegal Crude Siphoning Operation freepressjournal.in
- Environmental group says 37 dead in Nigeria after inhaling fumes trying to tap pipeline jpost.com
- At least 37 killed in Nigeria oil theft tragedy, bodies found in river english.ajel.sa
- Dozens die in Nigeria after inhaling toxic fumes in 'oil theft attempt' news.sky.com
