At least five people have been confirmed dead after an illegal mining pit collapsed at Mayo Kam community in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon while artisanal miners were reportedly working inside the pit, leaving several others feared trapped beneath the debris.
Initial reports from residents indicated that more than 20 people could have been affected by the collapse, although the exact number of casualties had not been established.
A resident of the community, Kenneth Ayila, said the incident occurred while miners were carrying out excavation activities at the site.
Community leader Mallam Usman Bello said most of those believed to have been caught in the collapse were indigenes of Mayo Kam, while only a few miners from neighbouring communities were usually involved in mining activities at the site.
The disaster has plunged the community into mourning, with residents expressing shock over the loss of lives.
Confirming the incident, spokesperson for the Taraba State Police Command, Victor Mshelizah, said five bodies had so far been recovered from the collapsed pit.
He added that rescue teams were still working at the site to determine whether other miners remained trapped underground and to recover any additional victims.
The police spokesperson said the actual number of casualties was yet to be fully established as search and rescue operations continued.
The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of artisanal and illegal mining activities in parts of Taraba State, particularly at sites where miners may operate without adequate safety measures.
Authorities are expected to provide further details as rescue efforts continue and the full extent of the tragedy becomes known.
