At least 37 people have died in Nigeria’s oil-producing Rivers state after an attempt to steal crude oil exposed workers and suspected thieves to toxic fumes, an environmental advocacy group said Friday.
The incident happened on Thursday when a group of people allegedly tried to siphon crude products from a loading vessel at an illegal tapping point. According to the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Center, the victims transferred the oil into boats while toxic fumes were released at high pressure. The group said most of those who died suffered from the fumes.
Many people are also believed to be missing, the advocacy group said. Its report cited a network of local volunteers who were tracking the incident and its aftermath.
Police Confirm Deadly Oil Theft Incident
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed that deaths had occurred but did not provide an official casualty figure. Police said an investigation was underway to establish exactly what happened and determine the number of victims.
Rivers State police spokesperson Blessing Agabe said those involved were allegedly attempting to steal crude oil when the incident occurred. Authorities have not yet released further details about the identities of the victims.
The reported deaths highlight the dangers linked to illegal oil operations in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, where crude theft remains a persistent problem.
Oil Theft Remains a Major Problem
Nigeria is Africa’s largest oil producer, but communities across the oil-rich Niger Delta have faced poverty, pollution and environmental damage after decades of petroleum exploration.
Illegal tapping and crude theft have become widespread in parts of the region. Criminal groups and other individuals often target pipelines and oil facilities to siphon petroleum products for illegal sale.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly warned that oil theft costs the country billions of dollars every year. Authorities have increased efforts to shut down illegal refining sites, protect pipelines and arrest those involved in crude theft.
The latest incident is likely to renew concerns about the human cost of illegal oil operations. Beyond the financial losses, crude theft can expose people to fires, explosions and poisonous fumes. It can also cause serious damage to the environment and nearby communities.
Authorities are expected to investigate the incident further as efforts continue to establish the full death toll and determine what led to the deadly attempt to siphon crude oil.
