TOXIC CHEMICALS AND MINERS’ DEATH
I write to show my concern towards what happened in the custody of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Niger State Command. If the scene had been properly managed,
Concern is expressed over the handling of suspected illegal miners by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. The deaths of the miners may be preventable with proper evidence gathering. Toxic chemicals used by miners include Ammonium nitrate plus Fuel oil (ANFO), Sodium cyanide, Mercury, Sulfuric acid, and Xanthates.
ANFO is an explosive for blasting hard rocks, releasing toxic nitrogen oxides fumes. Sodium Cyanide is crucial for gold mining, dissolving gold from iron ore but highly toxic to humans and animals. Mercury is utilized in small-scale mining, binding with gold but causing brain and kidney damage. Sulfuric acid is used for copper and uranium mining, weakening rocks for extraction.
Xanthates are employed to separate valuable minerals from soil, but are also toxic. Physical signs of these chemicals include distinct stains and residues on soil and cement floors. Heat exposure can lead to severe conditions, causing death. The federal government should prioritize upgrading detention facilities to prevent similar tragedies.
Written by urgent.news from This Day's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
