Nigeria Pipeline Toxic Gas Scare

A major tragedy has been reported in Nigeria, where 37 people are feared to have died after inhaling toxic gases while allegedly attempting to steal crude oil from a pipeline. The reported death toll has not yet been officially confirmed. The incident reportedly occurred around midnight on Thursday in the Okrika area of Rivers State, according to a local environmental organization.

According to YEAC-Nigeria, an NGO, some individuals allegedly made an illegal connection to an oil pipeline and attempted to divert crude oil into their boats. Toxic gases reportedly escaped during the operation, leaving several people sick and resulting in deaths. The organization also said some people remain unaccounted for. Police confirmed that the incident occurred during an alleged oil theft attempt but did not disclose the number of casualties. Rivers State police spokesperson Blessing Kaboorlo Agabe said an investigation is underway.