Rivers Oil Tragedy — 37 Feared Dead After Toxic Fumes Hit Suspected Oil Thieves

By Niger Delta Reporters

A major tragedy has been reported at Okari Jetty in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, where at least 37 people are feared dead after inhaling toxic fumes during an alleged illegal petroleum siphoning operation.

Reports indicate that a large number of youths had gathered around the waterfront when the incident occurred in the early hours of September 3.

Different reports have given varying casualty figures, with community sources putting the number as high as 43, while police authorities said investigations were still ongoing to establish the actual number.

The incident has renewed concerns about illegal oil bunkering and the deadly risks associated with crude-oil theft in the Niger Delta.

Niger Delta Reporters will continue monitoring rescue efforts and official investigations.