Bandit Activity Hampers Rescue Efforts for Trapped Miners in Nigeria

Over 30 artisanal miners in Nigeria got trapped in a collapsed mining pit in Shiroro district, where they work for a local company. The pit caved in last Sunday, leaving them stuck inside.

Abdullahi Baba Ara from the Niger State Relief Agency confirmed that rescue operations were stopped by security forces because of threats from bandits. Shiroro, along with other Niger State areas, has been suffering from bandit attacks involving pillaging, arson, and kidnapping for ransom.

The exact number of miners trapped is not clear, and rescue teams are encountering difficulties in reaching the location because of the danger posed by bandits. The region is renowned for its gold, tantalite, and lithium mining, but rescue efforts are hindered by insufficient equipment and challenging terrain. Mining was prohibited in Shiroro, Munya, and Rafi districts by the Niger state government last year due to security issues.